The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) has highlighted the need for targeted support for coal-fired power station workers after the e61 Institute released new modelling showing workers face a dramatic decline in income as power stations close.
The modelling indicates that coal-fired power station workers experience a 69% income drop in the first year and continue to earn 50% less four years after the station closes.
MEU General President Tony Maher said as Australian coal-fired power stations set to close to achieve net zero targets, coal-power workers and communities hosting power stations should not be left to bear the economic burden of energy transition.
“We know that we are facing a succession of closures in the years and decades ahead and that workers in those power stations are anxious about the future,” Maher stated.
Maher suggests that redeployment schemes can help retain skilled power station workers by allowing redundant workers to transfer to longer-operating power stations.
According to him, the current workforce is facing immediate disruptions as Australia works towards developing future industries.
“A scheme that requires power station operators to provide pathways for displaced workers with the skills, experience and desire to continue working in the industry is a small but critical step towards averting future economic pain in our coal energy regions,” he added.
“A pooled redeployment scheme must be part of the Government’s climate change planning to uphold their commitment that no-one will be left behind,” he continued.
