In the past week, Federal Members of Parliament have been provided with a greater insight of the challenges confronting the Latrobe City community.
A Latrobe City Council delegation led by Mayor, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan attended the annual National General Assembly and Australian Council of Local Government meeting in Canberra where they called for support of the region’s community led transition.
As we know, our region has a rich history deeply rooted in traditional industries. While these industries have contributed significantly to our community’s growth, we are now at a pivotal juncture where we must navigate a transition toward a more sustainable and resilient future.
Changes to government policy and confirmation of power generator closure dates have provided clarity, however the path forward continues to be long and complex. Our community is reacting to dramatic change beyond our control, we stand with them to support the equitable transition of our local economy and community.
Attendance at these events form part of Council’s key advocacy activities and provide an opportunity to garner support for a range of key actions within Council’s community informed, Our Transition plan.
Our Transition plan is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines our collective journey towards a brighter and more sustainable future. Our approach to transition reflects the key actions and performance measures of the Council Plan, while remaining responsive to a dynamic and
ever-changing environment.
Key actions include attracting investment - critical to reshaping the region’s economy, understanding future job opportunities and upskilling to meet the needs of new industry, skilled workforce promotion, business support and promotion of Latrobe City.
At the core of Our Transition plan is the recognition of Council’s vital role as a catalyst for progress. We are fully dedicated to leading by example, implementing bold initiatives and transformative projects that inspire and empower our community.
We are committed to harnessing the power of our community’s diverse talents and embracing innovation as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We firmly believe that by tapping into our collective strengths, we will become an unstoppable force for positive change and will be known as the region that gets transition right.
As Gippsland’s Regional City, Council plays a critical leadership role in advocating for both public and private investment to support community aspirations.
Meetings held in Canberra with Members of Parliament from both sides of government, were opportune for Latrobe City representatives to further advocate for a considered transition of the timber and energy sectors for Gippsland communities, while garnering support for a range of key actions within Our Transition plan.
Economic Diversification and Job Creation:
We are committed to fostering economic diversification by attracting new industries, supporting local entrepreneurship, and promoting innovation. By creating an environment conducive to emerging sectors such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, tourism, and creative industries, we aim to generate new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
We recognise the importance of a thriving local economy and the creation of quality job opportunities. Our Transition plan will attract investment and support local businesses, ensuring economic prosperity for all.
Key transition Activities include:
- Attract Investment
- Future Jobs
- Net Zero Energy Emissions
- Business Support
Education and Skill Development:
To ensure our community thrives in the changing landscape, we recognise the importance of education and skill development, and acknowledge the wealth of knowledge and skills within our community.
Our Transition plan will prioritise accessible education and training, we will work closely with educational institutions, industry partners, and training providers to deliver programs and initiatives that equip our community with the skills and knowledge needed for the jobs of the future and promote the transferable skills of industry workers.
Key transition Activities include:
- Upskilling to meet needs
- Skilled Workforce Promotion
Community Wellbeing and Resilience:
The strength of our community lies in the wellbeing and resilience of all. We are committed to enhancing our City’s liveability, ensuring access to essential services, promoting inclusivity, and prioritising mental and physical health initiatives that nurture the wellbeing of every individual.
The spirit of community solidarity has carried us through tough times, and it will be the foundation upon which we build our sustainable future.
Our Transition plan will foster a sense of belonging, where every resident feels valued and heard.
We will work hand in hand, ensuring that no one is left behind, and that our community’s diverse voices shape our path forward.
Key transition Activities include:
- Liveability
- Promote Latrobe City
- Transport
- Collaboration and Leadership
In delivering our plan, we will take a collaborative approach to ensure we can transition and transform our City.
As we embark on this transformative journey, we recognise that it will require collaboration, understanding, and a collective effort. Council will leverage opportunities for further engagement with Federal Government representatives in the coming months as we continue to call on all levels of government to support our transition.
Together, we can continue to be a resilient, thriving, and sustainable community that embraces new opportunities, preserves our unique heritage, and prioritises the wellbeing of our community.
Gippsland Councils join in partnership to advocate for Timber Industry workers
Ensuring our continued advocacy for worker transition was a focus of the Canberra delegation, the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer, Steven Piasente, joined the Mayors and Chief Executive Officers of Wellington and East Gippsland Shires at the invitation of Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester where they met with Members of Parliament – including Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt - Senator for Queensland, Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton, Shadow Minister for the Environment, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Jonno Duniam, and an advisor for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra.
The opportunity to partner with our fellow local councils and advocate on behalf of our community, through these valuable connections, for an equitable transition of our regions changing industry landscape was invaluable.
*The Council delegation led by Mayor, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan supported by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Dan Clancey, Councillor Dale Harriman and members from Council’s Executive Team.