For media enquires, please contact:
Justin Page HJA Co-ordinator: [email protected]
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
January 15th, 2025
‘We’re breaking up with coal’: times will change but will people?
“From what I see it seems we are being proactive about the matter when I see groups like Hunter Jobs Alliance being formed and pushing for the next generation of Australians to have good paying jobs and boost the local economy to keep locals employed,” says Matt, a 27-year-old coal miner.
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8551448/power-shift-voices-from-the-hunters-youth-on-the-energy-transition/
December 16th, 2024
Business and investor group call for strong 2035 emissions reduction target
As per the Paris Agreement signed in 2016, the Federal Government committed to setting an emissions reduction target for 2035 and presenting it by 2025. Committing to these targets would boost investment in renewable energy, create local job opportunities, and drive long-term economic benefits for regions like the Hunter. As Hunter Jobs Alliance Coordinator Justin Page says, “a strong 2035 emissions reduction target is essential to establish a clear framework that ensures economic transformation benefits workers and communities, with sustainability and social equity at the core of the transition.”
Full article: https://www.nbnnews.com.au/2024/12/16/business-and-investor-group-call-for-strong-2035-emissions-reduction-target/
October 29th, 2024
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/