The Liberals and Nationals have pledged to protect Victorian farmers and safeguard prime agricultural land by introducing strict new independent audits and economic impact assessments on new energy developments if elected in November.
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said communities across rural and regional Victoria, including the Shepparton electorate, are increasingly “concerned” about the State Government’s approach to renewable energy projects.
“The government is rolling out such infrastructure without properly considering the long-term impact on agriculture and food production,” said Ms O’Keeffe.
If elected, the Liberals and Nationals claim independent agricultural and economic impact assessments will become mandatory as part of the approvals process for major renewable energy projects and transmission developments to ensure prime agricultural land is protected.
“Protecting Victoria’s food and fibre production, particularly in the Goulburn Valley must be a priority,” said Ms O’Keeffe.
“Renewable energy projects and transmission lines have highlighted the growing concern by many in the community that Labor is steamrolling rural and regional communities by putting productive land at risk.
“This announcement is about restoring fairness, transparency and proper community scrutiny to planning decisions that directly affect Victoria’s food security and regional livelihoods.”
