"Importantly, we see a plan which involves both Federal and State Governments working together with Australian industry — committing to the hard work needed to pursue the best outcome Tomago Aluminium and its workforce, the broader Hunter community, and the people of NSW who rely on the vital role Tomago plays in maintaining grid stability and reliability." Australian Aluminium Council CEO, Marghanita Johnson, said.
"Competitive energy is the critical foundation that enables Australian businesses to succeed in global markets. For aluminium smelters, it is not optional — it is existential."
The aluminium industry is no longer competing against foreign companies but against foreign governments writing the rules to their own advantage. To counter this, Australian Governments must use every tool available to secure competitively priced electricity and support our industrial base — including working together to get the job done. Today's announcement represents a step in the right direction in creating the conditions needed to help restore Australia's industrial competitiveness.
"Australia must ensure we retain our value-added industrial capability — to maintain our role in global supply chains with significant economic and geostrategic benefits," Ms Johnson said.
About us:
The Australian Aluminium Council (the Council) represents Australia's bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting and downstream processing industries. The aluminium industry has been operating in Australia since 1955, and over the decades has been a significant contributor to the national economy. It includes six mines which collectively produce over 100 Mt per annum making Australia one of the world's largest producers of bauxite. Australia is the world's largest exporter of alumina with five alumina refineries producing around 17 Mt per annum of alumina. Australia is the seventh largest producer of aluminium, with four aluminium smelters and additional downstream processing industries including more than 20 extrusion presses. Aluminium is Australia's highest earning manufacturing export. The industry directly employs more than 20,000 people. It also indirectly supports a further 55,000 families predominantly in regional Australia at pay rates 60% above the national manufacturing average. The industry contributes more than A$18 billion to Australia's economy with annual export revenue in excess of A$15 billion.
