For media enquires, please contact:
Justin Page HJA Co-ordinator: [email protected]
Minister says no to more offshore wind projects in Hunter zone
The Hunter Jobs Alliance, with 24 local union environment and community groups, have sent a joint letter to Ministers Bowen, Minns, and Sharpe calling for feasibility licences and policies to unlock the full 5GW potential of the Hunter Offshore Wind Zone — to secure lasting jobs, clean energy, and a stronger regional economy.
“Unlocking the full potential of offshore wind in the Hunter means scaling beyond one project. We need a pipeline of coordinated developments to deliver lasting employment, skills growth, and economic resilience for the region,” the letter states.
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8992774/chris-bowen-rules-out-new-projects-in-hunter-offshore-wind-zone/
May 28th, 2025
Tangible support: Origin to highlight its programs to support Eraring workers
The Hunter Jobs Alliance welcomes the Net Zero Authority’s consultation on support for workers affected by the planned 2027 closure of Eraring, Australia’s largest coal power station near Lake Macquarie. The closure will directly impact over 200 workers, with many more in local supply chains also at risk. As HJA’s Justin Page says: “While the impacts on the direct workforces of Eraring and Centennial are more easily identified, HJA highlights the urgent need to map and address the broader flow-on effects across the supply chains and the region’s industrial ecosystem”.
May 1st, 2025
Nuclear v renewables: The coal mining town caught in Australia’s climate wars
The Hunter Valley is transitioning to a renewable energy future, despite ongoing debate over the potential for nuclear power. Justin Page from the Hunter Jobs Alliance argues that the region is already on track: “To go nuclear will mean starting off the ground… It will be ridiculous to change courses now.” With significant renewable energy projects underway, the region is well on its way to achieving a clean energy future.
Full article: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx284y23p0mo
April 7th, 2025
Future of Hunter coal-mining communities may hinge on election result
As coal declines, the Hunter region faces competing energy visions, with Labor backing renewables and the Coalition proposing nuclear. Locals are divided, but many want secure jobs and clear plans. Justin Page from the Hunter Jobs Alliance warned, “There’s a significant issue in terms of the timing and the scale of workers that will be out of jobs that are coal-related and power-station related before nuclear comes online“. Renewable energy is well suited for the region, “We’ve got the workforce, we’ve got the skills, we’ve got the transmission infrastructure, we’ve got the port — we’ve got all the right ingredients to successfully transition.”
Full article: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-07/coal-mining-heartland-seats-hang-in-the-balance/105119706
March 25th, 2025
Not a cent spent on economic diversification as uncertain future looms
Despite $100 million in the Royalties for Rejuvenation fund, none has been spent to support the Hunter’s transition from coal. Hunter Jobs Alliance coordinator Justin Page criticised the model reporting to the Resources Minister, saying, “We need a coordinated multi-agency approach across government.” He emphasised that the transition covers “energy, environment, climate, jobs, planning, domestic manufacturing, education and skills & training,” requiring a whole-of-government approach. With mine closures imminent, Page warned that even the full $25 million annual funding would fall far short, stating, “It would be insufficient for what is needed.”
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8924579/four-years-since-creation-100m-hunter-fund-remains-untouched/
February 28th, 2025
Government awards feasibility licence for Hunter Offshore Wind project
With a feasibility licence secured for the Hunter offshore wind area, Novocastrian Wind will begin environmental studies and community consultation, while the newly established Hunter Wind Industry Committee works to ensure local jobs and industry benefits.
“We strongly support the responsible development of offshore wind. This is a real opportunity to create new jobs, support regional supply chains, and encourage local manufacturing while ensuring best-practice environmental protections. We’ll keep working to maximise these benefits for the Hunter.” — Hunter Jobs Alliance Coordinator Justin Page
February 25th, 2025
Farmers, investors, miners and parents: how unconventional climate advocates can reach new audiences
Unconventional climate advocates, like the Hunter Jobs Alliance, play a crucial role in connecting with workers and communities that may not typically support climate action, including those in farming, business, and resource sectors. By representing voices from within these industries, they bridge divides and help create real, lasting change – focusing on local job opportunities and economic growth.
February 13th, 2025
Hunter Jobs Alliance calls for local energy hub
The Hunter Jobs Alliance is calling on the Federal Government to establish a “Local Energy Hub” in the region to bridge the information gap between communities, industry, and government as renewable energy projects expand. Coordinator Justin Page welcomed Ausgrid’s plan to use existing transmission easements for upgrades but warned, “We’re concerned locals will never hear about it because they don’t know that consultation sessions are taking place.” He said the lack of communication highlights why the Hunter needs a Hub to ensure residents understand and benefit from the transition.
Full article: https://www.newsofthearea.com.au/hunter-jobs-alliance-calls-for-local-energy-hub