OFFSHORE WIND CONSULTATION

Offshore wind matters to the Hunter as the region plays a key role in Australia’s energy, emissions and economic transformation.

That’s why we joined Hunter Jobs Alliance, Hunter Workers, HunterNet Co-operative and NewH2 coordinating on submissions to the Senate inquiry into Offshore wind consultation process.

Offshore wind offers opportunities for well paid, secure jobs and value-added Hunter manufacturing, with local industry positioned to play a key role in supporting offshore wind areas around Australia as part of a national supply chain.

The Hunter Hydrogen Infrastructure Masterplan identifies offshore wind as a critical component of the region’s growing hydrogen hub and heavy industry decarbonisation.

Key points in the Committee’s submission:
🔹 The consultation process for the declaration of the Hunter offshore wind area was unremarkable compared to other government-led consultations, with a high number of submissions received.

🔹 Decisions on offshore wind should be informed by evidence, expert advice and economics in addition to public consultation.

🔹 Opportunity to promote the leadership of the Australian Government in making decisions in the regional and national interest that may conflict with some local community views.

🔹 Development of offshore wind and other big decisions in the long-term public interest like nuclear energy should be led by good policy rather than politics.

🔹 The Australian Electoral Commission and the Australian Communications and Media Authority need to closely regulate Hunter-based seats during the next Federal election for truth in political advertising relating to offshore wind.

Photo Credit: Equinor