The Andrews Labor Government and Alcoa are working together to ensure the best possible outcomes are achieved after the closure of the company’s Anglesea operation at the end of next month.
This summer, water flows from Alcoa’s site to the Anglesea River will continue at a similar level to recent years, while long term planning occurs. This is a transitional arrangement following the shutdown of the Alcoa operation.
The continuation of water flows to Anglesea River from Alcoa’s site post operational shutdown closure will be regulated by EPA licence limits.
The Labor Government will work with the community to better understand the Anglesea River system and identify a range of options for the estuary into the future.
The Government, in partnership with Surf Coast Shire Council, will hold their first Community Conversation Series meeting in the coming weeks. The series will offer an independently facilitated forum for community discussion and feedback on a range of key issues including future crown land use, water, planning, and the long term vision for the Anglesea region once Alcoa departs.
Work is underway to check land titles and survey boundaries within the Alcoa Anglesea site, to ensure informed discussion on future land use and to progress the incorporation of the heath into Great Otway National Park.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“Alcoa has been a big part of the Anglesea community for almost 50 years and their departure will be strongly felt. A huge amount of work is underway ahead of the operational shutdown of the site and this will continue during the post closure transition and rehabilitation phase.”
“Ahead of the power station and mine’s closure on 31 August 2015, employees have been offered extended access to government subsidised training and one-on-one career counselling to help them with the skills, training and information they need to secure new jobs”.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment, Water and Climate Change Lisa Neville
“I’m very pleased that we are working together with Alcoa to maintain water flows into the Anglesea River for this summer, to allow us to resolve how to best manage the river in future. We are acutely aware of how important the river is to the town and visitors.”
“The closure of the Anglesea coal mine presents a unique opportunity for us to work with the community in determining the best future use of crown land.”
“We have committed to the inclusion of the Anglesea Heath in the Great Otway National Park, and are working with Alcoa to make that happen as soon as possible for the benefit of the local community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020