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Fair compensation and transparency for Victorian timber workers needed to counter Andrew Labor government lack of clarity

The Nationals advocate for transparent compensation for Victoria's native timber industry workers. Concerns raised over lack of clarity and support after industry closure. Efforts to secure fair compensation continue.

By news@gippsland - 17th August 2023 - Back to News

The Nationals are continuing to fight for Victoria's sustainable native timber industry workers calling for greater transparency on the compensation program. Speaking in State Parliament, The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath said Labor has failed to provide clarity to timber industry contractors and workers over promised payouts.

Gippsland Nationals MPs met affected individuals due to Labor's timber industry closure. Concerns arise about transparency in Andrews government's compensation consultation

Timber industry compensation

Ms Bath said, "Haulage and harvest contractors, their workers, and associated forestry businesses remain in a terrible state of limbo waiting for the offer of an acceptable compensation package from Labor. Our hardwood timber industry is on permanent stand down, while harvesters are paying thousands in loan repayments on stranded machinery."

"Fair compensation must be forthcoming immediately. The Andrews government must provide surety on stranded assets, foregone revenue compensation and worker support payments as a priority," she said.

Fight for timber industry

Gippsland Nationals MPs have held numerous meetings with individuals and businesses impacted by Labor's decision to shut the native timber industry. Ms Bath said there is serious and justifiable concern over the Andrews government's forestry compensation consultation and the lack of transparency.

"While The Nationals remain categorically opposed to Labor's cruel decision to close Victoria's sustainable native timber industry - we will fight for the best outcome. Our hardwood haulage and harvester contractors, workers and associated forestry contractors are all in a terrible state of limbo. Businesses including civil operators, firewood licence holders, silviculture, seed collection, haulage, mechanics, and other supply chain businesses are completely in the dark."

"It's vital all businesses are consulted and included in the state government's compensation packages based on the closures operational impact. The Nationals will continue to fight for all native timber contractors and workers who have lost their livelihoods at the hands of the Andrews government's decision to close the native timber industry," she said.

Pictures from Melina Bath MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• Wellington Shire Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange surges ahead, handling one in 43 Victorian Cattle Sales in 2024
  Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange recorded a remarkable 122% increase in cattle throughput last financial year, making it the highest percentage increase of any saleyard in Australia.
• Danny O’Brien warns 33 percent crime rise highlights Gippsland commuters’ safety concerns, lacking adequate PSO protection
  Crime on Gippsland public transport has risen nearly 33% in 12 months, raising concerns about PSO coverage and regional commuter safety under the Allan Labor government.
• Danny O’Brien warns Gippslanders to stay alert as fake government email and text scams increase
  Danny O’Brien urges residents to stay vigilant against sophisticated government-themed email and text scams, verify messages using Scam Safe Check, and report suspicious activity to protect the community.
• Darren Chester supports Tribunal decision to defend veterans' right, opposing Albanese government plan limiting Acts of Gallantry review
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will defend veterans' rights at a Senate inquiry, opposing the Albanese government's plan to impose a 20-year limit on reviewing acts of gallantry.
• Agriculture advisory committee supports East Gippsland farmers through collaboration and regional advocacy initiatives
  The Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee advises on policies, programs, and partnerships to support East Gippsland farmers, addressing biosecurity, water security, pest management, and regional agricultural priorities for a resilient sector.