Latrobe City Council welcomes the Victorian Government's commitment to re-establish the State Electricity Commission (SEC) in Morwell as noted in the Victorian Budget 2023/24.
An election commitment, the re-establishment of the SEC in Morwell would generate long-term employment opportunities for Latrobe City and support the community through a significant period of change now and into the future.
The commitment aligns with Council's own goals to harness opportunities in renewable energy and attract cutting-edge industry to our region.
Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Kellie O'Callaghan welcomed the confirmation of an initial $1 billion investment towards delivering 4.5 gigawatts of power through renewable energy projects.
"Our community has a long history of powering the state, and we look forward to continuing to play a leading role in keeping Victoria's lights operating but in a sustainable way.
"We call on the Government to consider fast-tracking the commitment considering today's confirmation that native timber logging will cease at the end of the year, directly impacting hundreds of workers at the Maryvale Mill.
"Fast tracking the establishment of the SEC and associated renewable energy projects will provide new jobs and industry which is critical in aiding in our region's transformation.
"We remain committed to working collaboratively with the Victorian Government, together we can achieve a sustainable energy future that supports worker transition, the creation of new and emerging jobs, training and development of our highly skilled workforce and future workforce, while ensuring a considered transition for our community and protection of the environment."
Council's Transition Plan, 'Our Transition' outlines a range of actions including upskilling to meet current and future business and industry needs and improved education outcomes for the community.
Council will await further detail of the $12 million funding pledge to establish VET qualifications, delivering jobs and funding the business case for the SEC, and the establishment of the TAFE Clean Energy Fund which will support the creation of a $5 million Clean Energy Centre at TAFE Gippsland's Morwell Campus Trade Skills Centre, to support the next generation of trades people to deliver SEC renewable energy projects.
