SUBMISSIONS are being sought for an inquiry into the closure of Hazelwood and Yallourn power stations and the impact on job losses in the Latrobe Valley.
The inquiry, to be undertaken by state parliament’s Economic and Infrastructure Committee, is charged with investigating three key areas: the impact of the closure of the Hazelwood Power Station on the economy and jobs of the Latrobe Valley, including the success of economic recovery efforts to date; potential economic impacts of the proposed closure of Yallourn Power Station in 2028 and options to offset the loss of more than 1000 direct jobs as well as associated contractors; and success or otherwise measures from the Latrobe Valley Authority to help the region transition.
Eastern Victoria MLC Melina Bath said the Latrobe Valley had undergone enormous economic upheaval and experienced significant job losses at the hands of the state government.
“The sudden closure of Hazelwood Power Station created a deep scar on the Latrobe Valley economic landscape and on families and small business,” she said.
“The recent announcement Yallourn Power Station will close four years early has re-opened this wound, with many left wondering how our community will survive long term.
“The Latrobe Valley community deserves to have a say on its future and provide feedback on the performance of the LVA as a long-term job creator.”
Ms Bath said the region “was once Victoria’s powerhouse”, but because of Labor’s policy decisions, was facing “unparalleled economic challenges”.
She said the state government’s attempts at economic stimulus and job creation had produced questionable outcomes.
“Latrobe Valley has a highly skilled workforce and the community is calling for long term sustainable jobs which complement our capabilities and potential,” Ms Bath said.
“Our community is fabulous place to live work and raise a family.
“We don’t want it to end up on the economic scrap heap, with families forced to move away for work and empty shops in our streets.”
Ms Bath said it was important to listen and develop an unbiased understanding of community needs.
“You cannot force the early closure of important regional industries, drive the destruction of others, fund some liveability infrastructure projects and then walk away proclaiming ‘job done’.
“Where will the replacement jobs be coming from?
“These are real people with real families – and their future is important.”
Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee chairman Enver Erdogan said that the committee was interested in hearing views on how the closure of the power stations will affect the communities of the Latrobe Valley.
“While Yallourn won’t be closing until 2028, now is the right time for the state government to be working to address the social and economic impacts of the closure of both power stations,” Mr Erdogan said.
The inquiry will also look at how the Latrobe Valley Authority can help the region transition to a new era of energy generation.
Submissions to the inquiry close on Friday, August 27.
For more about the inquiry, including how to make a submission, go to www.parliament.vic.gov.au/chypsinquiry.
