Lake Macquarie and the greater Hunter region have a rich history of mining and manufacturing. As industries change and energy generation transitions away from thermal coal, it is important to safeguard local jobs and ensure re-skilling opportunities are supported.
I support a just transition for our region through the Future Jobs Investment Authority (FJIA). This will ensure our economy and the workers who support it are not left behind or forgotten.
The importance of the FJIA was made evident with the negotiations between Centennial Myuna Colliery and Origin Energy Eraring Power Station where an agreement was hard fought to secure a supply contract to protect the jobs of Colliery workers. As an independent, I was able to work with all parties to balance the operational and social responsibilities of these local employers and obtain an agreement for the operational life of the power station.
I also welcome the announcement of a $2.5 billion investment by the State and Federal governments ensuring ongoing operations at the Tomago Aluminium smelter. The investment will deliver a long-term renewable energy solution which will allow it to stay open beyond 2028, when its current electricity contract expires, and accelerate decarbonisation.
To lose more than 1,000 jobs, and create uncertainty for thousands more, would have been a huge blow to the Hunter region.
The deal saves jobs and gives Tomago Aluminium a future, protecting a vital piece of Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability and securing the long-term future of our largest aluminium smelter.
This is a great outcome for our region, the State and the Nation.
The July 2026 committment for $12 billion by NSW Government to bring train manufacturing back to the Hunter provides the region an opportunity to activate former mining land in Teralba/Wakefield with pre-existing key connections to the rail corridor. I am working with Lake Macquarie City Council to advocate for the former Glencore Macquarie Coal Complex to be the new home of train manufacturing in NSW.
Investment in this kind of industry will ensure jobs remain in the area, and employment opportunities are available following the closure of mining operations across Lake Macquarie.
See more on the Macquarie Coal Complex Transformation Precinct plans HERE
I also worked tirelessly to remove the unfair restrictions placed on the Port of Newcastle by unjust privatisation deals. My Bill, adopted in 2022, allows our local port to diversify its operations to include container trade under certain conditions, creating opportunity to attract billions of dollars in private investment and create thousands of jobs across the greater Hunter region.
Find my contibution to the Debate on the Future Jobs Investement Bill 2025 HERE
