Eildon electorate
Cindy McLEISH (Eildon) (14:39): (404) My question is to the Premier. Premier, what support and compensation is being provided right now under the forestry transition program to workers and businesses in timber support industries already impacted by the closure of the native timber industry? Many constituents in my electorate have been impacted by the closure of the native timber industry, both directly and indirectly. These people, who invested in good faith to meet contract requirements in working with VicForests, are now left holding machinery and vehicle assets that there is no longer a market for. They have lost their source of income working in support of the industry and are already facing significant hardship. A good example which illustrates this point is that of Brendon Clark. He runs a small business collecting seeds for the repropagation of our native forest areas. One hundred per cent of his income was from VicForests contracts, but he has lost his business – his income – and has so far been unable to gain any assistance from the current support measures that are in place for the timber industry. He needs immediate help right now, Premier.