The federal government in Australia is refusing to confirm whether it will offer a financial package to save jobs at the Alcoa smelter at Geelong in Victoria.
Alcoa announced a review of its Point Henry operations, which employs 600 people, earlier this year, blaming a high Australian dollar and low metal prices for pressures on its bottom line.
The federal government has refused to confirm reports that Prime Minister Julia Gillard will announce a rescue package for the aluminium smelter this week.
But State Regional Cities Minister Denis Napthine says Victoria has been working with the Commonwealth and Alcoa to come up with an assistance package.
''The federal and state governments are working closely together,'' he said.
Federal Industry Minister Greg Combet is refusing to reveal any details.
Alcoa says its review is on track to finish by the end of the month.
