Further support sought for Yallourn workers

The CEO of the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) has applied to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to formally establish the Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP) for the closure of Yallourn Power Station, currently scheduled for 1 July 2028. 

Under the EIJP regulatory framework, workers can request access to supports from their employers, to prepare for and transition into their next job. This may include access to training, career planning and financial advice, and flexible work arrangements or paid time off to access these supports. 

The CEO’s application names the owners and operators of Yallourn Power Station, along with 15 companies who provide a range of goods and services to the power station and will be substantially impacted by the power station’s closure. Together, these companies employ 91% of workers identified through this process who may be impacted by the closure. 

The FWC will make a determination on whether the EIJP regulatory framework should be put in place and which businesses it would be reasonable to include. The FWC will give affected parties an opportunity to be heard. 

If the FWC determines the EIJP should be formally established, workers at businesses named in the determination will be able to request access to transition supports from their employer. 

Local businesses may also benefit from grant incentives provided by the NZEA to businesses that hire workers impacted by the closure. 

The CEO’s decision follows public consultation with stakeholders including workers, businesses, unions and employer organisations as well as local government and community representatives.  

NZEA CEO David Shankey said that the decision was made with Yallourn’s workers front of mind. ‘This closure will affect a large workforce. The EIJP would give those workers the ability to request key support to help them prepare for future employment – and enforceable pathways to secure it,’ Mr Shankey said. 

Mr Shankey said that, separate to his application, the NZEA is working to support Latrobe and the broader Gippsland region during the energy system change. 

‘We know that the closure of Yallourn Power Station will impact the community, and we understand from speaking to workers, local businesses and community groups, that they want certainty around the future of their region and future jobs. 

‘We are focused on supporting the community through our broader work in the region, including attracting new industries, creating further training and jobs pathways and building a diverse economy. 

‘There are already signs of new economic activity across the region, in new energy projects, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals processing and expanding the existing agricultural industry. Projects such as Latrobe Magnesium, Delburn Wind Farm, and Marinus Link are creating local jobs and attracting new investment. 

‘The NZEA will continue to work with all levels of government, organisations and communities to contribute to a resilient economy in the region.’ 

The FWC will now consider the application.  

Further information about the CEO’s application and FWC processes can be found on the FWC website. 

Public submissions on the Yallourn Power Station consultation are available on the NZEA website. 

EIJP enquiries

Email: EIJP@pmc.gov.au (or EIJP@nzea.gov.au for any enquiries after 6 July 2026) 

Media enquiries

Email: nzea.media@pmc.gov.au (or media@nzea.gov.au for any enquiries after 6 July 2026)  

Mobile: 0409 458 626