Latrobe City Council remains committed to working collaboratively with government, industry bodies and business to attract new industries, create jobs, and enhance the economic resilience of our community.
The commitment comes following the announcement of further job losses at the Maryvale Mill in August which follows the caseation of white pulp and paper manufacturing in January 2023.
The continued loss of jobs is a matter of great concern. Council recognises the need for immediate action and long-term strategies to address future employment opportunities.
It is for this reason Council is calling on the Federal and Victorian Governments to support a considered transition for the region.
This is the time we must work in conjunction with Our Transition plan to ensure strategic investment is made for the liveability and prosperity of our City.
We call on all levels of government to move to support job creation through the attraction of new industry and diversification of our local economy.
Our most important focus continues to be on the local workers and their families, impacted by this announcement and the Victorian Government’s early transition from native timber logging, by 1 January 2024.
It is essential that we ensure a just transition for those affected by Paper Industry cutbacks, along with the expected job losses across supply chain businesses and related industries that rely on the timber industry for employment. Impacted employees must be offered support, retraining and alternative employment opportunities.
Council continues to actively advocate and garner support on behalf of community, engaging with government authorities, industry stakeholders, and community representatives to seek pathways for the revitalisation and diversification of our economy.
Council will continue to communicate with management of the Maryvale Paper Mill to understand the impacts of any further changes to operations.