The Allan Labor Government flawed forestry transition scheme is failing to provide promised funding to help businesses transition into plantation timber jobs.
The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath has called for immediate state government intervention on behalf of Hodge Forestry in Latrobe Valley.
Due to government bureaucracy, Hodge Forestry cannot transition to the plantation industry and begin his new provisional contract.
“Since 2014, Hodge Forestry has been providing specialised OH&S audit services as a VicForest contractor,” said Ms Bath.
“Despite Labor’s claims of supporting workers and contractors, owner Trevor Hodge has not received any compensation or financial assistance following the closure of the native timber industry.
“Without financial support, Mr Hodge cannot afford to purchase the specialist equipment to fulfill his contractual obligations for plantation work – it’s unacceptable.”
Ms Bath said following advice from the Forestry Transition Team, Hodge Forestry applied for Round 3 of the Victorian Transition Innovation Fund but is yet to receive any news on whether his application has been successful.
“It is unfair that Labor is leaving redundant forestry workers in limbo after its disastrous policy shut down Victoria’s sustainable native timber industry.
“Labor has a history of turning its back on our forestry contractors.
“After so much heartbreak, it is time for a good news story for contractors who have complied with the state government’s every requirement but are still facing uncertainty.”
Ms Bath is calling on Labor to expedite the Round 3 application process so Mr Hodge can complete his transition and move forward.
