Transformation Authority Supported

The Australian Mining Cities Alliance (AMCA), a collaboration of local governments from around Australia, has supported key concepts encompassed in the National Energy Transition Authority Bill 2022.

“While we prefer it to be a transformation rather than a transition, we are pleased to see Parliament is considering the task of planning for and managing change for communities detrimentally affected by decarbonisation” said Chair of AMCA Phil Barwick.

“We have recently made a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Economics (Legislation) and we will be pleased to contribute ideas to the Commonwealth Government as the Bill and associated initiatives are developed.”

“In particular AMCA acknowledges and appreciates that the Bill includes the following specific function of the proposed Authority;

(c) to support communities and workers affected by the closure of coal-fired power stations and coal mines to adapt, including by:

(i) helping attract new public and private investment in job-creating industries and social infrastructure in affected areas; and

(ii) ensuring ongoing equivalent employment or social services are provided in affected area; (emphasis added).”

Mr Barwick added, “The inclusion in the Bill of the following advice function is also supported;

(e) how communities and workers affected by the closure of fossil fuel mines or coal-fired power stations can be worked with to ensure equivalent employment opportunities and social services are maintained, including by attracting new industries to affected areas; (emphasis added)”

Mr Barwick explained; “AMCA asserts the following fundamental concepts;

1. Mining communities whose economic base is predominantly derived from the mining or extraction of fossil fuels will be the most significantly affected communities of all, as a result of decarbonisation.

2. Mining communities each comprise a society of workers and their families, many of which having long and deep commitments to and dependency upon their community.

3. Mining community workforces and businesses are not just the mine employees and the mining companies.

4. Many non-mining businesses and their workers underpin the mining activity providing key services, support and facilities and will be directly impacted by transition of their local economy.  They include teachers, nurses, local government workers, emergency workers, retail workers, hairdressers, fast food workers, electricians, bus drivers etc…

5. Transformation of mining communities must address the needs of both the mining businesses and employees and the non-mining businesses and their employees equally.

6. A ‘Safeguard’ approach to non-mining businesses is warranted.

7. Mining Communities and their local governments must be genuinely engaged and actively involved in the planning for their transformation.”

“We look forward to working with Government to ensure that transformation for affected communities is well planned, well managed and adequately funded.” he concluded.