Publications
For media enquires, please contact:
Justin Page HJA Co-ordinator: [email protected]
Centre of excellence set to supercharge Hunter’s net zero transition
The announcement of the TAFE Centre of Excellence at Tighes Hill is a significant step towards meeting the demand for skilled workers in the net-zero economy, with 250 additional apprentices to be trained each year. Sam Wilkins, organiser of the Hunter Jobs Alliance, welcomed the initiative, stating, “This centre is a vital investment in the future of Western NSW, helping to address critical skills shortages in renewable energy.” He added, “With its strategic location near key Renewable Energy Zones and emerging industries like offshore wind and hydrogen, the Tighes Hill campus is perfectly positioned to drive the region’s growth.”
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8805526/tighes-hill-centre-of-excellence-will-train-an-250-apprentices/
October 29th, 2024
PM and Premier to launch net zero centre of excellence at Tighes Hill TAFE
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Chris Minns have announced a $60 million Net Zero Manufacturing Centre of Excellence at Tighes Hill TAFE, designed to tackle skills shortages in the region. The centre will establish a higher apprenticeship model and integrate vocational education with advanced manufacturing training. Justin Page, coordinator of the Hunter Jobs Alliance, stated, “This Centre of Excellence is a vital step toward ensuring our local workforce is equipped for the future of clean energy and manufacturing, reinforcing the Hunter’s position as a leader in these industries.”
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8804283/tighes-hill-tafe-to-become-a-net-zero-centre-of-excellence/?cs=305
September 26th, 2024
Looming electrical skills shortage threatens Hunter’s clean energy future
A new report by the Institute for Sustainable Futures and AEMO warns that a shortage of skilled electrical workers could jeopardise clean energy projects in the Hunter. Justin Page, coordinator of the Hunter Jobs Alliance, said, “We need immediate investment in training programs,” highlighting the importance of an Energy Centre of Excellence at Tighes Hill TAFE. “This transition presents a huge opportunity for job creation.”
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8775539/electrical-skills-shortage-could-derail-clean-energy-projects/
September 14th, 2024
‘Not on my watch’: how windfarms became a key issue in NSW local elections
Justin Page of the Hunter Jobs Alliance notes that the anti-windfarm sentiment in Port Stephens has reached a level of angst not seen in neighbouring areas, saying, “This has seen it feature far more in council campaigns.” He explains, “That opposition group set up early and created the angst and fear without any basis that it’s going to wreck the marine ecosystem,” and adds, “It’s unfortunately a pretty well-led campaign and the public just don’t know or understand, which is why it’s gaining traction.”
Full article: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/sep/14/nsw-council-elections-renewables-wind-farms
July 15th, 2024
Hunter union, community groups slam ‘bureaucratic’ state transition plan
Hunter Jobs Alliance coordinator Justin Page suggested that the NSW government’s Future Jobs and Investment Authority model is “overly bureaucratic” and urged, “They need to go back to the drawing board, come to our community, and co-design a proper, well-funded transition authority… $25 million across four regions is not going to cut it” said Page.
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8692849/hunter-groups-slam-states-bureaucratic-coal-transition-plan/
June 26th, 2024
Hunter offshore wind project takes next steps
The Hunter Jobs Alliance is committed to collaborating with Oceanex and Equinor to “maximize local jobs, supply chains, and community benefits,” asserts coordinator Justin Page. The Alliance stresses the importance of “strong community consultation throughout the environmental assessment stage” to effectively address environmental concerns and local impacts.
Full article: https://www.newsofthearea.com.au/hunter-offshore-wind-project-takes-next-steps
June 17th, 2024
Winds of fortune: Coal workers eye “jobs for life” with offshore renewables
The Hunter Jobs Alliance is championing the region’s shift to offshore wind. Coordinator Justin Page highlighted the potential of renewables, “There’s no reason why we can’t shoot for the stars,” and emphasised the need for “local companies to create long-term meaningful jobs and prosperity for our regions.” As the Hunter transitions, the focus is on creating stable and sustainable employment opportunities that promise long-term economic growth.
Full article: https://reneweconomy.com.au/winds-of-fortune-coal-workers-eye-jobs-for-life-with-offshore-renewables/
May 28th, 2024
‘Plan for a future beyond coal’: questions about transition authority funds
“The Hunter Jobs Alliance is concerned that our region is receiving much less funding through this program, relative to the size of our coal industries, which is necessary to diversify our economy rapidly during the transition from coal mining. The Hunter is a $65 billion economy and the scope of the challenge ahead is immense. Even if the entire $25 million per annum [from the Royalties for Rejuvenation fund] was allocated to the Hunter, it is considered well short of requirements” Mr Page said.
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8643999/courtney-houssos-provides-details-of-hunter-transition-plan/