The Andrews Labor Government will keep helping create more jobs in the Latrobe Valley, with another $7.5 million investment in the Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA).

The funding will ensure the LVA can build on its work with the local community, including the development of a new transition plan to support the region through the Yallourn power station’s planned closure.

The new transition plan will keep local jobs and the local community at the heart of the Government’s long-term work for the Latrobe Valley, as we continue to support the region’s economic transition and deliver dedicated help in consultation with the workforce, unions and the local community.

The plan will focus on growing more jobs in more industries, including new and expanded business opportunities across sectors that play to the region’s strengths. This includes new energy, food and fibre, health and wellbeing, tourism and advanced manufacturing.

The new funding will also continue support for the successful Ladder – Step Up program, which helps young people unlock opportunities across education, jobs and training – strengthening their health and wellbeing. This builds on our $1.7 million investment in the program since 2017.

The Andrews Labor Government established the LVA in 2016 to support the transition of Latrobe Valley workers, their families and the community at the time of the Hazelwood Power Station and Mine closure.

An original $266 million investment kick-started the LVA’s work and enabled hundreds of jobs to be created through construction of around $750 million worth of major projects.

Thanks to this new investment, the LVA and Regional Development Victoria will continue to work closely to support local leaders, business, industry and the community across the region to deliver projects, programs and services – setting the region up for a strong future.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas

“We’ve always backed Latrobe Valley workers and their families – and we’ll keep working to create more good jobs with decent wages in the region.”

“The LVA has done an incredible job of working with the local community, capitalising on the region’s strengths, driving investment and creating thousands of jobs – this new funding will keep workers at the heart of our long-term plans for the Latrobe Valley and keep that momentum going strong.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“We are determined to continue our record investment into the Latrobe Valley’s transition and development, including through the LVA – not just to create jobs, but to support every community.”