Australia’s largest power generator AGL has confirmed it will cut jobs as it works towards the closure of its coal-fired power plants.
The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) said it had been informed 300 jobs would go across management and operational roles at AGL’s Bayswater and Loy Yang A power stations.
AGL would not confirm exactly how many jobs would be cut.
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“As we transition our portfolio, and connect our customers to a sustainable future, we need to ensure that today’s business remains productive and competitive in this changing market while we continue to invest in our business for tomorrow,” an AGL spokesperson said.
“We understand this may be a difficult time for our people and we’re committed to communicating with transparency and respect and providing support throughout the consultation process.”
With both power stations slated to close within a decade, the MEU warned government intervention may be needed to prevent AGL cutting jobs early to avoid transition support obligations.
In meetings held at both sites this week, union representatives were informed that 300 jobs would be cut across AGL’s business—including management and operational roles at both power stations.
Under plans put forward by AGL, expressions of interest for voluntary redundancies would be sought, with forced redundancies an option if targets aren’t met. Job cuts would be effective from the first week of December.
“AGL’s restructure is a kick in the guts for power station workers in the lead up to Christmas,” MEU general secretary Grahame Kelly said.
“Coal-fired power station workers are already facing stress and uncertainty with moving timelines for closures. News that hundreds of jobs will now be lost as soon as this December is a further blow.
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“With a framework for worker transition support now in place through the Federal Government’s Net Zero Economy Authority, we are very concerned about energy companies fast-tracking job cuts to avoid potential retraining and redeployment obligations future.
“We are calling on AGL to do the right thing by its loyal workforce that have powered our country for decades. And we will be exploring all avenues to ensure power station workers in the Latrobe Valley and Hunter Valley get all the support they deserve as these facilities head towards closure.”
