25 August 2023 – The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) welcomes the federal government’s announcement on the opening of consultation on the Illawarra offshore wind zone and calls for the prioritisation of local workers and manufacturers on future projects.
The development of offshore wind capacity is key as Australia continues to move away from coal-fired power generation, and the Illawarra, with its strong industrial base and established steel industry, is primed to be a hub for the local manufacture of turbines, towers, and other components.
The AMWU calls on the federal government to put in place requirements around the use of local content on offshore wind projects to make this vision a reality. There should be national coordination on the manufacture of wind energy components to ensure we have a renewables manufacturing sector able to provide good, stable jobs across the country.
Quotes attributable to Steve Murphy – AMWU National Secretary
“We have a real opportunity to develop a green manufacturing capability, using local steel and the skills of local workers. The government must put policies in place to make sure local jobs and workers are prioritised.
“AMWU members have the skills to work on renewable energy projects, but there is a need for investment in TAFE to guarantee a steady supply of workers able to work in emerging industries like offshore wind. These announcements mean nothing if we lack the support for local workers to make offshore wind a reality.
“The impact of the offshoring of wind turbine manufacturing has already been felt by AMWU members in Victoria. Jobs were lost when the project managers chose imported wind towers manufactured overseas, instead of using locally manufactured towers.
“As our energy needs change, we need to build our confidence in renewables. The government must demonstrate it can deliver on both climate action and job creation.”
Media contact: Darren Rodrigo - 0414 783 405 | [email protected]