Latrobe City Council leaders have met with Victorian Government and Opposition representatives during a recent Parliamentary Delegation to advocate for greater support for jobs, investment, economic diversification and community safety across the municipality.
The delegation, led by Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Sharon Gibson, along with Deputy Mayor Dale Harriman and Chief Executive Officer Steven Piasente, focused on what Latrobe City needs to continue growing and creating opportunities as the region experiences major industry change.
A key focus of the conversations was making sure Latrobe City remains a priority for government investment and support during the energy transition, including supporting the proposed Latrobe Regional Economic Support Package, the Gippsland Logistics and Manufacturing Precinct (GLaMP), the proposed Energy from Waste facility at Maryvale and opportunities in hydrogen, urea production and Carbon Capture and Storage.
Council also called for support to unlock housing and industrial development across Moe-Newborough and Morwell. Twelve infrastructure projects have been identified as barriers to growth, with the potential to unlock more than 3200 residential lots, 127 industrial and commercial lots and almost 3000 ongoing jobs.
Cr Gibson said the delegation was an important opportunity to make sure the voices of local communities were being heard.
“Our region is going through a period of change and now more than ever it is vitally important that we keep having these conversations about what comes next,” Cr Gibson said.
“With the closure of Yallourn getting closer, and recent job losses at Maryvale, constructive dialogue among the key decision-makers is more important than ever, as is action on the ground. People want to know what the future looks like for local jobs, local businesses and our communities.
“The Latrobe Valley has helped power Victoria for generations and we’re ready to play an important role in the state’s future as well.
“There are some exciting opportunities in front of us, but we need the right support to help make them happen. That’s why we’re continuing to advocate for investment, better infrastructure and projects that will create jobs and support our local economy.
“We’re not sitting back waiting for someone else to shape our future. Council is working hard to attract investment, support new industries and make sure the Latrobe Valley is well placed to benefit from the opportunities ahead.”
Council also raised the need to review outdated coal-related planning controls that continue to limit investment and development in parts of the municipality where coal extraction is no longer viable or appropriate.
Community safety was another key topic, with Council advocating for increased police visibility in town centres, additional Protective Services Officers at transport hubs and support for the proposed Community Connectors Program, which would provide early intervention support for vulnerable community members.
Meetings with representatives from both sides of politics focused on practical ways to support local jobs, increase housing supply, help businesses grow and improve community safety.
Council will continue working with all levels of government to progress the priorities outlined in its Advocacy Agenda and ensure Latrobe City remains a great place to live, work and invest.
