One Gippsland is seeking to support the region’s fishing industry by expressing its “deep concern” about the possible impact of offshore wind.
One Gippsland Chair, Councillor Nathan Hersey has this month written to the Victorian Premier to urge the Government to protect the industry while progressing offshore wind development.
“Commercial fishing provides employment, supports local businesses and contributes significantly to our region’s economy and has done so for many decades,” Cr Hersey said.
“The rapid advancement of offshore wind energy projects has created uncertainty for Gippsland’s commercial fishing industry.
“This uncertainty requires strong clarification from the Victorian and Australian Governments.
Offshore wind is a huge opportunity for Gippsland and the nation and the sector has One Gippsland’s support. However, this once-in-a-generation transition must coexist with long-standing industries like commercial fishing.
“That involves meaningful consultation, protection of key fishing grounds and genuine commitment to coexistence,” he said.
To ensure Victoria’s offshore wind ambitions are fair, responsible and sustainable, One Gippsland has called for measures including:
- mandatory early and ongoing consultation with the fishing sector;
- transparent data sharing and collaborative marine spatial planning;
- protection of key fishing grounds from offshore wind infrastructure;
- support for industry transition and innovation, including access to research, skills and technology funding; and
- transparent compensation frameworks for any loss of access or income.
Cr Hersey said Gippsland was at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition.
“Gippsland has an abundance of natural resources and a highly skilled energy sector workforce. We are ready to deliver renewable projects while also ensuring the on-going prosperity of our existing industries such as fishing,” he said.
“One Gippsland’s in-principle support for the development of new energy technologies in the Gippsland region has never been without expectations.
“It is essential that our existing industries, including agriculture, fisheries and tourism, are not negatively impacted and that new investment, employment and social benefits are seen for our region.
“We have an opportunity to show the rest of Australia that renewable energy and traditional industries can not only co-exist, but thrive.
“We want to work with our government partners to harness Gippsland’s social, environmental and economic strengths and ensure Gippsland remains an attractive place to live, work and invest.”
One Gippsland is a peak regional advocacy body representing Gippsland. The members of One Gippsland are: Bass Coast Shire Council, Baw Baw Shire Council, Destination Gippsland, East Gippsland Shire Council, Federation University, Food and Fibre Gippsland, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Latrobe City Council, South Gippsland Shire Council, TAFE Gippsland and Wellington Shire Council.
