By LIAM DURKIN
FURTHER jobs could go at Opal Australian Paper Maryvale.
Internal communication seen by the Express reveal workers have been told of “proposed organisational changes within the production spaces to strengthen operational leadership”.
The proposal would see the removal of fire services, first aid and general yard crew functions.
Half-a-dozen new shift manager roles are also proposed, to complement the existing six shift managers.
Opal has started the process of consulting with impacted team members and union representatives.
In a statement, the company said changes were necessary given the end of white paper production at the mill.
“As a result of the end of VicForests’ wood supply and therefore white paper production, the Maryvale Mill’s operating environment has changed,” Opal said.
“It is no longer registered as a major hazard facility and now operates under a lower-risk framework.
“With regular reviews of how the site operates and emergency management planning, the mill is proposing to add six new shift manager roles, which will support existing shift managers.
“These additional roles will provide operational responsiveness and support trained safety leadership on-site.”
Opal added that affected workers will be offered opportunities elsewhere.
“As part of the review, some roles have been identified as potentially redundant,” Opal said. “Opal is working with impacted team members to explore redeployment opportunities across the mill or the broader Opal group, and is hopeful these opportunities will be taken up, where reasonably practicable.
“The mill is committed to safety, and the additional shift manager positions will enhance the internal emergency response team’s capabilities. In addition to this, Opal has solid engagement with local emergency response agencies, and it will continue to utilise with them as the first responders in the case of a major incident.
“The Maryvale Mill remains an important asset for Opal and for the Gippsland region, and it continues to support local jobs, the community and the broader economy.”
The consultation period has started, and will run until Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
The CFMEU Maryvale Sub-Branch was not in a position to comment while consultation was ongoing.
