With both power stations slated to close within a decade, the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) warned government intervention may be needed to prevent AGL cutting jobs early to avoid transition support obligations.
In meetings held at both sites this week, union representatives were informed that 300 jobs would be cut across AGL’s business – including management and operational roles at both power stations.
Under plans put forward by AGL, expressions of interest for voluntary redundancies would be sought, with forced redundancies an option if targets aren’t met. Job cuts would be effective from the first week of December.
“AGL’s restructure is a kick in the guts for power station workers in the lead up to Christmas,” said MEU General Secretary Grahame Kelly.
“Coal-fired power station workers are already facing stress and uncertainty with moving timelines for closures. News that hundreds of jobs will now be lost as soon as this December is a further blow.”
“With a framework for worker transition support now in place through the Federal Government’s Net Zero Economy Authority, we are very concerned about energy companies fast-tracking job cuts to avoid potential retraining and redeployment obligations future.”
“We are calling on AGL to do the right thing by its loyal workforce that have powered our country for decades. And we will be exploring all avenues to ensure power station workers in the Latrobe Valley and Hunter Valley get all the support they deserve as these facilities head towards closure.”
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