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Latrobe City Council urges Victorian government to resolve industrial dispute at Maryvale Mill for economic stability

Latrobe City Council urges the Victorian government to intervene in the Maryvale Mill industrial dispute, stressing its impact on jobs, the economy, and the community, and calling for a fair, sustainable resolution.

By news@gippsland - 5th February 2025 - Back to News

Latrobe City Council calls on the Victorian government to intervene to resolve the current industrial action at the Maryvale Mill. The ongoing industrial action at the Maryvale Mill has escalated to a critical point, with workers locked out and key operations at the mill halted. This situation has far reaching implications for the local community, workers and broader economy.

Latrobe City Council calls on the Victorian government to work with industry and communities to secure Maryvale Mill's future, ensuring sustainability, economic resilience, and job security amid rising costs and market shifts

Resolving industrial dispute

Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman urges the Victorian government to take action to support the resolution of this dispute and ensure a fair outcome for all parties involved. "The Victorian government has an important role to play in facilitating dialogue between both parties, supporting efforts to bring both management and the union back to the negotiating table with the aim of resolving this dispute quickly and fairly."

"This will help achieve a solution that safeguards both workers' rights and the long-term viability of the Maryvale Mill, ensuring a sustainable future for the region and its workforce. The current industrial action not only affects those directly involved but also places undue strain on the Latrobe City community. Many families rely on the mill's operation for their livelihood, and any prolonged disruption threatens the region's economic stability," said the Mayor.

Supporting economic transition

As Victoria's most heavily impacted and transitioning region, Council stands with our community to support the economic diversification of our region's industry landscape and economy. However, we need the support of the government to ensure that this economic diversification is fair and sustainable.

"We call upon the Victorian government to continue to work collaboratively with the timber industry and affected communities, following the cessation of native timber harvesting, to find viable and sustainable solutions that prioritise both environmental conservation and the welfare of timber industry workers, including those employed at the Maryvale Mill," he said.

Securing Maryvale's future

Mayor Harriman said, "We understand that this is a pivotal moment for the mill's future as it navigates challenges such as rising costs and evolving market demands. A fair and equitable resolution to this industrial dispute is critical to ensuring that the Maryvale Mill remains a key player in Australia's paper industry and, importantly, a strong employer in Latrobe City."

"Securing the ongoing operations of the Mill is essential not only for the livelihoods of those directly impacted but also for the long-term prosperity and economic stability of the Gippsland region. A timely resolution will not only protect local jobs but will also ensure that the Maryvale Mill can continue to serve as a vital economic engine for Latrobe City," said the Mayor.

Pictures from Latrobe City Council Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com