Sean Bell (NSW, Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party) Share this | Link to 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.

Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

by leave—The government will be opposing this motion. The Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner is the appropriate mechanism for complaints and inquiries about new or existing wind farms; large solar farms; energy storage sites, like pumped hydro or large batteries; and major powerline projects. The commissioner is engaging with the proponents of the Lambruk Solar Project.

Slade Brockman (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Bell, business of the Senate motion No. 2, be agreed to.