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.

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.

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