By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
THE FULL relocation of WorkSafe to Geelong is safe, according to Labor MP Christine Couzens.
The Member for Geelong said all 550 jobs would be included in the relocation.
“I’ve spoken to the premier about it and we’re sticking to our election promise – WorkSafe is coming to Geelong with its full complement,” Ms Couzens said.
Doubt about whether Geelong would receive all 550 jobs arose when the Community and Public Sector Union Victoria said only 300 would move to the city.
The Independent reported two weeks ago that a review of WorkSafe and the TAC could water down the bipartisan election commitment.
Doubts increased last week after the Government failed to guarantee the full relocation, saying only “there will be no job losses”.
Liberal Member for South Barwon Andrew Katos accused Labor of trying to “weasel” out of its commitment.
The Independent reported that the Committee for Geelong had written to Treasurer Robin Scott to emphasise the importance of the WorkSafe relocation.
Ms Couzens said WorkSafe would remain an independent office and would not be merged with the TAC.
“The review is about efficiency and effectiveness. It’s not about job cuts,” she said.
“We (the former Labor state government) moved the TAC here and it was a success and we’ll move WorkSafe here with the same success.
“I can understand union concerns about jobs because jobs are precious, particularly in Geelong.
“There are always going to be those who don’t want to go, but we’re sticking to our election promise and it has been confirmed by the premier.
“I’ll be watching it carefully as well.”
Federal Liberal Member for Corangamite Sarah Henderson said she was concerned about reports State Government could water down its commitment to fully relocate WorkSafe to Geelong.
“I call on the Government to honour that commitment,” Ms Henderson said.
“This was a coalition election commitment to bring 550 much-needed jobs to Geelong. Labor matched this promise and must do the right thing by the people of our region by fulfilling it.”
