The Allan Labor Government will be forced to cough up documents behind the closure of gas networks to 10 regional towns, following a successful motion in the Victorian Upper House.
In August 2025, the Allan Labor Government announced it would phase out compressed natural gas (CNG) delivered by Solstice Energy from ten regional Victorian towns, including Robinvale, Swan Hill, Kerang, Nathalia, Marong, Maldon, and Heathcote.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said the motion meant the government would have to release a range of documents behind the decision, including briefs to the Minister for Regional Development.
Ms Broad told Parliament she had spoken to householders who were now facing enormous bills.
“Why are residents being left out of pocket? It should be the government that is paying, not the consumers. Some of them do not have any capacity to afford these costs,” Ms Broad said.
“A 20-year public–private contract has been cut short halfway through, with residents now being forced to fund the transition as Solstice Energy cuts off the gas supply.
“Some residents are facing $10,000 to $20,000 bills, with one household forced to withdraw $30,000 from superannuation to cover appliances, switchboard upgrades and other costs.
“To make matters worse, the government’s rebate system is inconsistent and unreliable. Rebates vary by contractor, change frequently and in some cases are lower than last year, leaving households with no certainty and vastly different out-of-pocket costs.”
Solstice Energy has confirmed gas supplies will cease after 2 August 2026 if residents take no action.
“The Minister for Energy and Resources must urgently intervene, release all relevant documents, fix the broken rebate system and fully compensate residents so they are not left out of pocket,” Ms Broad said.
“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage our energy system and local families are paying the price.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764
