The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) has signed the Queensland Government’s world-first Energy Workers’ Charter, guaranteeing that workers made redundant by the national transition to clean energy will receive ongoing employment at a Government-owned energy organisation.
The Workers Charter forms part of the Government’s new Queensland Energy Plan and outlines how the Queensland Government will achieve its renewable energy targets and ensure a sustainable and affordable energy future for Queenslanders.
The charter guarantees every worker affected by station shutdowns a job in a government owned energy organisation. There will be opportunities for early retirement for workers approaching the end of their careers and new and future proofed opportunities for other workers.
Caption: The ETU signed the charter alongside other unions, stakeholders, and the State Government. Photo: ETU.
ETU Queensland and Northern Territory Divisional Branch Secretary, Peter Ong, said the plan would deliver a $62 billion State Government investment in clean energy assets and workers.
“This plan is the first of its kind in Australia, it will see a $62 billion investment from our state government into clean energy assets and a Just Transition for workers and communities,” Mr Ong said.
“We have been involved in the development of the Energy Workers’ Charter from start to finish, and today, I signed it on behalf of our Union. The charter guarantees that no energy worker will be out of work through the transition to renewable energy.
“Our members in coal fired power stations know that the industry is changing. They need a plan. And I’m confident that the Energy Workers Charter is that security they need.”
The Queensland Premier recently announced new renewable energy targets of 70 per cent by 2032 and 80 per cent by 2035 and has committed to retaining public ownership for the majority of renewable assets.
“We must maintain our current market share of 54 per cent publicly owned generating capacity when we transition to renewable assets,” said Mr Ong.
“I’m immensely proud to say that our Union has been involved in the development of the Plan and Workers Charter that will shape the future of our state and give our members the insurance and stability they deserve.”
