In the News
For media enquires, please contact:
Justin Page HJA Co-ordinator: [email protected]
HJA co-ordinator weighs in on Royalty debate
“There’s a strong policy rationale for doubling the annual allocation to $50 million as well as funding the structural change authority a lot of people are asking for, which would cost in the order of $15 million a year.”
“Given both the Hunter’s contribution and how much value the region would offer for boosted investment in diversification, it would be a bargain at twice the price.”
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7810652/is-the-hunter-getting-its-fair-share-of-a-36-billion-royalties-bonanza/
July 2nd, 2022
Why we need an Authority – Opinion by Warrick Jordan
Regarding the economic changes ahead: “There are many views on why and how fast these changes are occurring, but the region is now focused on collectively tackling undeniable economic shifts. And, like any situation that involves livelihoods and families, people want action, not talk.”
July 2nd, 2022
HJA analysis calls for more funds to smooth the transition
“The main message is that we’ve got a fair few pieces in place, but when you stack us up against regions in other states, there are some obvious holes. The services to support affected workers and communities aren’t there like we see in Latrobe. There are other fundamentals like coordinating responses to closures, expert advice on economic change, supply chain diversification, and a coherent approach to mine land reuse that we need to address.” said Warrick Jordan
These gaps could be efficiently addressed through doubling the Royalties for Rejuvenation Fund to $50 million per year, and a $15 million annual investment in a regional structural change authority, to deliver on-ground support across the region, with a head office in the Upper Hunter.
Full article: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7801366/65-million-a-year-analysis-puts-price-tag-on-hunters-power-switch/
May 30th, 2022
AGL upheaval – where will it leave workers?
“Whoever ends up running the show at AGL, listening to and prioritising the needs of workers, communities and regional industries has to be at the top of the to-do list.”