Vic: Vic can lead green jobs drive, forum told

AAP General News (Australia)
04-24-2009
Vic: Vic can lead green jobs drive, forum told

MELBOURNE, April 24 AAP - Victoria should seize a chance to lead the world in green
jobs, a forum of business, government and other leaders has heard.

More than 25,000 new jobs could be created in five industries in Victoria while delivering
substantial cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, Environment Victoria says.

However, delegates at Friday's summit - Victoria, the Green Jobs State - also said
the green jobs goal would need focused planning and worker training.

Brotherhood of St Laurence executive director Tony Nicholson warned that new jobs would
not just emerge.

"New green jobs need to be supported through deliberate policy measures and improved
workforce training," Mr Nicholson said.

He added investment in green jobs should be expanded as part of state and federal economic
stimulus measures.

Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) chief executive Wayne
Kayler-Thomson said the state should focus on building a tourist industry centred on high-yield,
low-volume custom.

"That's where tourism in the future will grow," Mr Kayler-Thomson said.

"We have protected our environment and we should protect it productively."

Mr Kayler-Thomson also called on employers and employees to "green their skills".

"We don't want to spend two to three years improving green skills. It should be done
quickly and delivered where they work," he added.

AAP jxt/sjm/jl

KEYWORD: GREEN JOBS

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