Power generators commit to worker transfer scheme

PRESS RELEASE

In a major win for the Latrobe Valley community, the Andrews Labor Government has reached agreement with all three power generators to participate in the landmark worker transfer scheme to help displaced Hazelwood workers.

Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan today announced EnergyAustralia – which operates Yallourn power station – was the latest operator to agree to a Latrobe Valley Worker Transfer Scheme Partnership Agreement. The partnership agreement has already been signed by AGL and Engie which operate the AGL Loy Yang and Loy Yang B power stations respectively.

The Labor Government is spending $20 million on the scheme, backed by the local trade unions, to support the transfer of around 150 highly-skilled Hazelwood workers so they can remain in the power industry. Today also marks the first successful transfer of a Hazelwood worker to the AGL Loy Yang power station.

The Labor Government will contribute funds to the power generators to support the re-deployment of further Hazelwood workers.

Former Federal Minister Simon Crean was appointed by the Government to act as a facilitator between the unions and employers at all generators and mines.

The Government is also pleased to learn the Australian Tax Office has agreed to give favourable tax treatment to eligible employees at AGL Loy Yang.

The worker transfer scheme is part of an unprecedented $266 million transition package for the Latrobe Valley – which includes the $50 million Economic Growth Zone to support business growth and the establishment of the Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA).

The LVA’s worker transition service is providing tailored support to workers and families to give them the skills, training, information and personal support they need to make a fresh start.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan

“We promised Hazelwood workers that they wouldn’t be left behind – we meant it – and this landmark worker transfer scheme is a testament to that.”

“This is about maintaining the Latrobe Valley’s highly-skilled workforce and ensuring Hazelwood workers can continue contributing to the region’s proud power generation industry.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“This scheme is the end result of tireless work from the Government, local trade unions and Latrobe Valley generators to get the best outcomes for Hazelwood workers.”

“We will always stand with the Latrobe Valley – that means creating and retaining jobs into the future.”