Eraring application seeks further support for Hunter workers
The CEO of the Net Zero Economy Authority has applied to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to establish the Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP) to support workers impacted by the closure of Eraring Power Station, Australia’s largest power station.
Under the EIJP, employers can be required to provide workers with supports to help prepare them for their next job, including access to training and career and financial advice.
The CEO’s application names Origin Energy, Centennial Coal and 11 other businesses as employers that should be included in the EIJP. These businesses employ over 1,300 workers at Eraring Power Station, Myuna Colliery and across the supply chain.
If the FWC decides to implement the EIJP, workers at businesses named in their determination will be able to access transition supports from their employer.
While some employers already have transition supports in place, such as Origin Energy’s Future Directions program, the NZEA CEO has determined that the EIJP would help to provide certainty, structure and enforceability for workers to access the supports they need.
Local businesses may also benefit from grant incentives provided by the NZEA to businesses that hire workers from the closing power station.
The CEO’s decision follows a public submissions process and consultation with stakeholders including workers, businesses, unions and employer organisations as well as local government and community representatives. This process helped inform the CEO of the impacts of the closure on workers and businesses, as well as any existing supports available to workers.
NZEA CEO David Shankey said this is a significant decision for the Hunter.
‘We know that the closure of Eraring Power Station will see change for workers, businesses and supply chains in the Hunter and this needs to be well managed. It is our job to not only ensure workers are supported but to help build a resilient and diverse economy for current workers and future generations.’
‘The Hunter has helped power Australia for generations and will continue to do so.
‘My decision today is part of a broader suite of actions the Authority is taking to support the Hunter community. This includes turning the focus to tomorrow’s jobs and working with industry so new employers can be established and grow in the region.
‘Our work will also support the delivery of master plans for mining land re-use at both the Mt Arthur mine site in Muswellbrook and Macquarie Coal site in Lake Macquarie.
‘We will continue to work with all levels of government, organisations and communities to build on the strengths of the Hunter,’ concluded Mr Shankey.
In January 2026, Origin Energy decided to extend the operation of Eraring until April 2029.
The FWC will now consider the application. Businesses, workers and other groups impacted by the EIJP will have the opportunity to be heard in the FWC, as part of its considerations.
Further information about the application and FWC processes can be found on the FWC website.
Public submissions on the Eraring Power Station consultation are available on the NZEA website.
Read more about the EIJP.
EIJP enquires:
Media enquires:
nzea.media@pmc.gov.au / 0409 458 626