HON STEPHEN JONES MP
ASSISTANT TREASURER
MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES
MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

ALISON BYRNES MP
MEMBER FOR CUNNINGHAM

FIONA PHILLIPS MP
MEMBER FOR CUNNINGHAM

 CAROL BERRY
LABOR CANDIDATE FOR WHITLAM

Today the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Hon Chris Bowen MP has announced a pause to feasibility licensing for the Illawarra Offshore Wind Zone.

So far in the Illawarra zone, one application has been received, and at the applicant’s request the Government has paused consideration of the feasibility licence until after the federal election.

We are disappointed that policy uncertainty created by Peter Dutton has affected the progress of this important project and the job and economic opportunities for the Illawarra.

Peter Dutton has made offshore wind a cornerstone of his election campaign – an industry his former Liberal National government introduced and strongly backed.

We would welcome the Liberal Party’s explanation for this colossal backflip, as their demonstrated support was steadfast amongst the ranks:

“An offshore electricity industry in Australia will further strengthen our economy, create jobs and opportunities for Australians, and enhance the delivery of affordable and reliable power.” - Former Energy Minister, Angus Taylor MP – 2 September 2022.

“All because we know a successful offshore wind sector will support reliable and affordable energy supplies and create thousands of jobs for Australians, while reducing our emissions.” - Former Assistant Minister for Energy, Tim Wilson MP – 5 April 2022.

The Coalition has deterred investment from the private sector in renewable projects like offshore wind, stifling real action on climate change and limiting job opportunities for our regions.

During their last term of government, 24 out of our 28 coal fired power stations announced their closure – and eight stations shut down. They had no plan to replace this energy, which was clear by 4 gigawatts of dispatchable renewable energy leaving the grid; and only 1 gigawatt entering.

Peter Dutton and the Liberal Party have proposed no alternative plan to address future industry transition, job creation or energy generation for the Illawarra. Not one.

We support the zone designation to remain in place until after the federal election, at which point the Government of the day and interested proponents could continue the feasibility process without the risk created by Peter Dutton’s opposition to investment and jobs in the renewables sector.

When it comes to jobs and economic opportunities for the region, all options must be on the table. Any proposed project needs to stack up environmentally and economically and must include good local content provisions and demonstrated community benefit.

Responsible leadership is about looking to the future. As a region, we must look at all opportunities for our children, grandchildren, and their children. It is our responsibility to try and leave the planet, our community and our economy on a better trajectory than how we inherited it.