The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) has called on the NSW Government to finalise its financial support for the Tomago aluminium smelter, warning that delays could jeopardise jobs and Australia’s sovereign industrial capacity.
In a news release, the AWU said the Tomago smelter is the largest single employer in the Hunter Valley energy precinct, and that businesses, supply chains, and local communities rely on certainty regarding its continued operation.
The union emphasised that support for the smelter is not just about preserving jobs, but also maintaining Australia’s ability to process bauxite into aluminium domestically, rather than exporting raw materials and importing finished products.
Aluminium production is considered strategically important in many major economies, which actively maintain domestic smelting capacity.
Focusing on the growing green aluminium market, the AWU highlighted the potential for Tomago to lead in low-carbon aluminium production.
Verified green aluminium is increasingly sought after by manufacturers across sectors including automotive, construction, and technology.
Tomago could become one of the first smelters globally powered predominantly by renewable energy. The union noted that preserving current operations is critical to maintaining the necessary skills and supply chains for the future (AWU statement).
Tomago Aluminium recently announced a A$1 billion investment to extend operations beyond 2028, signaling its commitment to long-term production and integration of renewable energy.
The smelter, which accounts for a significant portion of NSW’s electricity consumption, plays a key role in enabling large-scale wind, solar, and battery storage projects in the Hunter region, acting as an anchor for renewable energy investment.
The NSW Government has also highlighted trade and investment opportunities for industrial growth. The recent Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement is expected to benefit industries such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and critical minerals.
The AWU stressed that failing to support Tomago could not only reduce current industrial capacity but also limit Australia’s ability to compete in the emerging global green aluminium market.
