FEDERAL Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says all levels of government are working together as part of the response to the impending closure of Hazelwood Power Station.
Last week, Mr Chester and State Member for Morwell Russell Northe and Member for Eastern Victorian Melina Bath hosted Minister for Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg in Morwell.
Mr Frydenberg met with Hazelwood workers to hear their concerns and discuss ways to help employees who will be affected, and also met with Latrobe City Council.
The Federal Government has allocated $43 million for an investment package to assist the region adjust to the closure.
Mr Chester said there was a strong desire from all levels of government to work together.
“I am meeting regularly with elected representatives from Latrobe City Council and local businesses owners to discuss the Federal Government’s response to the decision by Engie Group to close Hazelwood,” Mr Chester said.
“Last week, Member for McMillan Russell Broadbent and I also met with the Latrobe Valley Authority to discuss its strategy for assisting the region.
“It is critical that all sides of politics put aside their differences to help workers, contractors, their families, and supply chain businesses.
“I am confident that all local members of Parliament and Latrobe City Councillors will be able to work together to get the best outcome for the Latrobe Valley.
“I also look forward to a Joint Taskforce between the different levels of government being established as soon as practical to ensure there is no overlap of resources and we get the best use of government funding.”
Mr Chester said he would be meeting again with Latrobe City Council again this week, while Minister for Industry Innovation and Science, Greg Hunt, will visit Morwell and Traralgon today for a small business roundtable.
Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and Member for Morwell Russell Northe with Hazelwood workers after their meeting with Minister for Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg last week.
