“Future Made in Australia Act” historic step forward for workers

The Australian Council of Trade Unions strongly supports the Prime Ministers announcement today of a Future Made in Australia Act and looks forward to working with Government to ensure that its content guarantees the creation of good, safe, secure well-paid jobs and tangible community benefits.

The ACTU welcomes the announcement of public investment, government procurement, financing and training to build critical industries like green metals, green hydrogen, advanced renewable manufacturing, and value-added critical minerals.

These Industries can guarantee generations of Australian jobs and prosperity, drive down climate pollution and the cost of living, helping both Australia and the rest of the world meet their climate and clean energy goals.

For this investment to work it is essential that government support include conditions that ensure the jobs it creates are well-paid, safe, secure jobs in the regions and communities that need them.

Quotes attributable to ACTU President Michele O'Neil:

"The Prime Minister's announcement today of a Future Made in Australia Act promises a historic step forward for workers, for the climate, and for every Australian who wants a fair go on a liveable planet.

"Decarbonising our economy could create hundreds of thousands of good secure well-paid jobs, healthier communities, and a renewed national prosperity, while safeguarding Australians from spiralling climate crises.

"Renewables have proven time and again that they're the cheapest form of energy. More renewables on the grid means lower power bills-incredibly important during this cost-of-living crisis.

"This is a nation-building project; The Future Made in Australia Act will help Australia compete at the head of the pack in the global race toward our clean energy future and make sure the benefits flow to workers their families and communities."

The jobs and industries of the future need to be built now, and the union movement is ready to play our part in winning for workers, better jobs, a stronger economy and a safer climate.