The Australian Government is seeking feedback on the benefits and effects of future offshore wind development in a proposed area in the Indian Ocean off Bunbury.
Consultation is currently underway, including the chance to have your say. Feedback must be provided by 11:59pm (AEDT) Friday 3 May 2024.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is hosting community drop-in sessions in the region from 19 to 21 March 2024 for community members to ask questions and provide feedback on the zone.
Your feedback will help inform Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen’s decision on whether the proposed area is suitable for offshore wind development.
Key points:
- Offshore wind projects do not currently have approval. This proposed area is the first step and your opportunity to provide feedback, ahead of future projects being considered.
- Your feedback matters. The Minister for Climate Change and Energy will consider issues raised in public submissions.
- The environment is protected under Australian law. Any future offshore wind projects will need approval under Australian environmental laws and regulations.
- Future offshore wind projects must share the space with existing marine users, including First Nations, fishers, shipping and defence.
- A local offshore wind industry could provide clean, reliable energy to communities and local manufacturing, support thousands of jobs, and help reach net zero by 2050.
For more information on the proposed Bunbury offshore wind area public consultation, including community drop-in sessions and how to have your say, visit https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/oei-bunbury
Community drop-in sessions
Bunbury, Tuesday 19 March 2024
Session 1 – 12.30pm to 2.30pm
Session 2 – 4.30pm to 7pm
Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Wellington Suite, 2 Blair St, Bunbury WA 6230
Register: https://www.trybooking.com/CPKAD
Busselton, Wednesday 20 March 2024
12.30pm to 2.30pm
Busselton Youth and Community Centre
21 Foreshore Parade, Busselton, WA, 6280
Register: https://www.trybooking.com/CPKAH
Harvey, Thursday 21 March 2024
10.30am to 12.30pm
Harvey Town Hall, 104 Uduc Road, Harvey, WA, 6220
Register: https://www.trybooking.com/CPKAV
Mandurah, Thursday 21 March 2024
4.30pm to 7pm
Mandurah Seniors and Community Centre
41 Ormsby Terrace, Mandurah, WA 6210
Register: https://www.trybooking.com/CPKBA
