The Parliamentary Inquiry into the decommissioning of Victoria’s oil and gas industry has commenced, with the committee hearing from industry, environmental groups and the Centre of Decommissioning Australia (CODA) on day one.
Environment and Planning Committee member, The Nationals’ Melina Bath said while the Inquiry covers the entire state, Gippsland is at the heart of the discussion.
“Gippsland has been the backbone of Victoria’s energy supply for decades.
“As Victoria retires offshore infrastructure, it is vital to seize the opportunity to create local jobs through dismantling and potentially recycling components, while ensuring the highest environmental standards.”
“There are real prospects for the Gippsland region in safe decommissioning of assets but also in the establishment of new industries.
“Barry Beach Marine Terminal could act as a critical asset in this process – as one industry winds down, there is an opportunity for the creation of new skilled jobs.”
The inquiry also heard from CODA’s Dr Francis Norman, who stressed that key priorities for the Victorian Government include ensuring decommissioning regulations are fit for purpose, regulators are properly resourced and there is integrated coordination with Commonwealth regulators.
Ms Bath said establishing community trust and confidence are also essential components in the decommissioning process.
“There must be a framework that protects the environment, supports innovation in recycling and delivers economic benefits to our region.
“The Nationals will continue to advocate for practical solutions that keep Gippsland at the forefront of Victoria’s energy transition.”
