Senate debates

Monday, 3 November 2025

Committees

Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee; Reference

4:15 pm

Photo of Sean BellSean Bell (NSW, Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That the following matter be referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 30 June 2026:

The impact of proposed renewable energy projects on regional communities including the Lambruk Solar Project near Loomberah, New South Wales, with particular reference to:

(a) the use of prime agricultural land for industrial-scale renewable energy development;

(b) the effect on family farming operations, food and fibre production and local property values;

(c) the social, mental health and financial impacts on residents and farming families;

(d) risks to aquifers and soil degradation;

(e) the adequacy of dust and noise mitigation measures;

(f) the impact of increased heavy vehicle traffic on local roads and council infrastructure;

(g) the involvement of energy companies such as Venn Energy Inc. and other overseas investors;

(h) the level of benefit or disadvantage to affected Australian communities;

(i) any national interest implications arising from foreign control of energy assets;

(j) the adequacy of current federal and state planning, zoning and approval processes for renewable energy developments on rural land; and

(k) any other related matters.

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