The Andrews Labor Government has reached a breakthrough agreement with Alcoa to secure jobs for thousands of Victorians.
The Labor Government worked tirelessly to keep Alcoa’s Portland Smelter operating, following a power outage on 1 December 2016 which threatened the smelter’s future.
The smelter is Portland’s largest employer and more than 1600 supply chain and indirect jobs depend on its operation.
The Labor Government has worked with Alcoa and the Commonwealth Government towards a solution because of the important role it plays in Victoria’s economy.
Victoria will make a significant contribution over four years to sustain the smelter and the Commonwealth Government will also provide support.
This win for Portland comes after months of negotiations, including trips by the Minister for Industry, Employment and Resources Wade Noonan to meet with Alcoa’s global chief in New York.
In parallel, Alcoa and AGL have finalised a deal to secure the smelter’s energy supply.
Most importantly, this agreement addresses the uncertainty felt by Alcoa workers and their families and the broader community about the future of the Portland smelter.
In addition to 650 direct employees and contractors, the Portland Smelter injects more than $120 million annually into the Portland region and about $386 million of broader economic benefit.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We promised Portland workers we would leave no stone unturned in our efforts to keep the smelter open – and we have delivered certainty to thousands of local workers and their families.”
“Keeping workers in jobs and supporting Victorian manufacturing is a Labor Government priority and here in Portland, we will continue to grow jobs and create new opportunities.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry, Employment and Resources Wade Noonan
“We’ve been working around the clock to keep the smelter open because the Labor Government looks out for workers and their families.”
“The smelter is critical to Victoria’s economy and we have made sure the Portland region does not lose out following December’s power outage.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020