Vic can be 'world leader in green jobs'(Via The Sydney Morning Herald)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.For the very latest in green jobs please click here |