Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis today joined business and community groups in the Latrobe Valley to call for a City Deal to create new jobs and support businesses ahead of Hazelwood’s closure.
Visiting businesses in Morwell with Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O'Callaghan and the Morwell Traders Group, Mr Dalidakis called for the Turnbull Government to partner with the Andrews Labor Government, the Latrobe Valley Authority and local council’s to help grow jobs in the Valley.
The Labor Government has created a $50 million Economic Growth Zone to support companies wanting to start or expand their businesses with financial incentives such as reimbursement of fees and charges, help with securing international trade opportunities, planning and other regulatory matters.
The Labor Government is pushing, as part of a City Deal, for the Turnbull Government to partner in the Economic Growth Zone and offer practical support such as incentives to attract new businesses and help grow local jobs.
It should also include funds for infrastructure upgrades to boost the liveability of the area, make the Valley attractive for investment, help diversify the local economy and create jobs.
The Labor Government is providing a $266 million support package for the Latrobe Valley, including $174 million for community infrastructure, $50 million for the Economic Growth Zone and $22 million for workers and businesses directly affected by the closure of Hazelwood.
As part of the support package, the Latrobe Valley Authority was also established to lead the Government’s response, identify economic development opportunities and support affected workers and businesses.
At COAG earlier this year, an agreement was reached by all levels of government to undertake City Deals to make our cities better places to live, work and do business.
The Turnbull Government has so far announced three City Deals with Western Sydney, Townsville and Launceston, but so far none in Victoria. These agreements have included extensive funds for sports stadiums, university campuses, rail upgrades and investments in business attraction.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis
“It’s time the Turnbull Government stood up and started looking after Victorians – this City Deal could be huge for business and job growth across the Latrobe Valley.”
“We’ll stand by the Valley through tough times – and that’s why we’ve provided a $266 million support package – but we need the Commonwealth’s support to be able to do more.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing
“The Latrobe Valley needs the Turnbull Government to offer more than just statements of support to boost jobs and long-term growth across the region. ”
“It's time for the Coalition to deliver on its promise and match what the Andrews Government is providing.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020