NT CLEAN JOBS PLAN: NEW REPORT
NEW ECONOMIC MODELLING from AlphaBeta has found 1,000 jobs can be created in the Northern Territory, rapidly getting people back into the workforce while also tackling climate change.
"The Clean Jobs Plan is a national report that identifies a dozen policy options which can create jobs fast, where they are needed and for people who need them most. The job creation could start immediately and continue over three years," said AlphaBeta Director, Andrew Charlton.
"In the Northern Territory hundreds of jobs could be created in ecosystem restoration and improving the collection of organic waste. There are also hundreds of potential jobs in making public buildings and homes more energy efficient," said Mr Charlton.
Report Key Findings
In the NT, up to 200 jobs could be created in ecosystem restoration and revegetation; up to 200 jobs in improving the collection of organic waste; up to 200 jobs in making homes and public buildings more energy efficient. Some jobs could be created now; all would be created within 3 years.
Economic stimulus can pay long-term dividends and set us up for the future by creating jobs, kick starting the economy and tackling climate change simultaneously.
Investments in clean jobs will have a lasting benefit for the economy, reducing energy costs, producing reliable clean power and developing new industries.
"The opportunities identified in our modelling work are shovel ready and will make a difference throughout the NT. One third of the jobs would require less than 12 months of retraining, meaning that workers who lost their jobs because of the COVID-19 crisis could be rapidly employed," said Mr Charlton.
"Earlier this month, the Northern Territory joined all other Australian states and the ACT in adopting a target of net zero emissions by 2050. To help achieve that target, the NT Government can create jobs now, based on the information in our report," said Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie.
"The NT has a large footprint of ecosystems, which need restoration and revegetation. Jobs would involve building protective fencing and other projects that prevent land degradation," said Ms McKenzie.
"The Clean Jobs Plan is unique because of the speed at which it can get people back to work. It puts us on a practical, jobs-rich path and focuses on areas most in need. It sets us up for the future, by creating jobs and tackling climate change. It's a win-win solution," said Ms McKenzie.
The Clean Jobs Plan was commissioned by the Climate Council. AlphaBeta is part of Accenture.
