The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, has strongly opposed proposed legislation that would hand the Allan Labor Government sweeping new powers to forcibly access private land across regional Victoria.
Speaking in Parliament after joining protesters on the steps of Parliament, Mr O’Brien described the powers set out in the National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Bill as an outrageous attack on landowners’ rights.
“It allows government agencies to break locks, enter farms without consent and fine people up to $12,000 simply for refusing access to their own private property,” Mr O’Brien said.
“This is a spectacular overreach by the Allan Labor Government and shows complete contempt for rural communities, including the people of Gippsland South, who are being asked to carry all the burdens of the energy transition while the city reaps the benefits.”
Mr O’Brien said the government rammed the 160-page bill through Parliament with just two hours of debate, labelling it a “disgraceful abuse of process” and a sign that Labor is embarrassed by its own legislation.
“The Allan Labor Government didn’t even bother to make a proper argument. Existing laws already allow access to land to progress important economic infrastructure, so why introduce new fines and new powers?
“Labor can’t answer that, because this Bill seems to be about silencing landholders, not working with them.
“There is no final plan for community benefits, no meaningful consultation, and no respect. Labor wants to skip straight to threats, fines and forced access instead of working with the people whose land and livelihoods are at stake.”
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged that if elected in 2026, they will repeal this legislation and restore regional communities’ rights, including access to VCAT to challenge inappropriate renewable energy and transmission developments.
“This fight isn’t over,” Mr O’Brien said. “Only The Nationals in government will stand up for regional Victorians and ensure their voices are heard and respected.”