The Community and Public Sector Union confirmed HMAS Albatross workers have been fearful that their jobs are under threat.
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A number of workers reached out to the union in recent weeks after a staff meeting, where they were told 70 Nowra-based jobs were in jeopardy.
“HMAS Albatross staff were told recently that consultants are recommending that half of their jobs be slashed as part of a national Defence review,” CPSU Deputy National President Rupert Evans said.
“That would mean up to 70 jobs in Nowra are on the line.
“The CPSU has been representing members in meetings about the national review process through this year and is fighting to keep every single job, including the 70 positions that are on the line at HMAS Albatross.
“Saying that no final decision has been made is cold comfort for our hardworking members at HMAS Albatross and their families.
“These jobs are critical to defence capacity and are of course very important to the Nowra community.
“The CPSU calls on the Turnbull Government to categorically rule out job cuts at HMAS Albatross.
“Until a clear statement is made in support of this base and these jobs, this uncertainty and anxiety will go on for these workers, their families and the local community.”
Meanwhile, on Monday upon visiting Nowra for a Vietnam veterans reunion, Navy Chief Tim Barrett said he could not confirm or deny whether jobs would be lost, and that the navy was looking at a possible restructure, according to regional communities Shadow Minister Stephen Jones.