The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien says the Allan Labor Government’s declaration of new Renewable Energy Zones across Gippsland has failed to provide important assurances for local residents, farmers and landholders.
The Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone and Gippsland Shoreline Renewable Energy Zone were formally declared last week, identifying areas where future wind, solar, battery and associated energy infrastructure projects may be developed.
Mr O’Brien said local communities deserved greater certainty about how any proposed developments would affect their land and livelihoods.
“People understand that Victoria’s energy system is changing, but they expect to be properly consulted and treated with respect throughout the process,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Many Gippsland residents remain concerned about the impact of transmission infrastructure, offshore wind developments and renewable energy projects on productive farmland, local communities and private property rights.”
Mr O’Brien said one of the biggest concerns was legislation passed by the Allan Labor Government that gives government agencies and transmission companies greater powers to access private land.
“We have already seen Labor introduce laws that allow compulsory acquisition of private property before projects have received final approvals and that has understandably caused significant concern in regional communities.
“I have proudly joined locals on the steps of Parliament to oppose laws that undermine property rights and will continue fighting to ensure local communities have a genuine say in decisions that affect their land and livelihoods.
“The declaration of these Renewable Energy Zones has occurred without answering the fundamental questions many landholders are asking about their rights, the protection of farmland and how local communities will benefit from these projects.”
Mr O’Brien said Gippsland communities should not be expected to bear the impacts of Victoria’s energy transition without genuine consultation and appropriate protections.
“That’s one of the reasons The Nationals and Liberals have a policy to promote urban solar parks on warehouse and factory rooftops in Melbourne – developing energy where it is needed and minimising the need for more transmission lines.
“Gippsland can help power Victoria’s future, but that must be done in partnership with local communities, not imposed upon them.”