Agriculture
15 August, 2023
Farmers' petition wants immediate halt to project
VICTORIAN Farmers’ Federation has launched a petition calling for the VNI West and Western Renewables Link projects to be scrapped. “We’re hoping to deliver a message to government from hundreds of people that these projects must be stopped...
VICTORIAN Farmers’ Federation has launched a petition calling for the VNI West and Western Renewables Link projects to be scrapped.
“We’re hoping to deliver a message to government from hundreds of people that these projects must be stopped and re-assessed, before it’s too late,” said president Emma Germano.
“It’s clear the Victorian Government has failed to adequately plan for the transition to renewable energy and this will have big impacts on food and fibre production and regional communities.
“What’s worse is the appalling treatment of farmers and regional communities and the failed consultative approach undertaken by energy authorities and the government.”
Ms Germano said action needed to be taken by the State Government to properly plan for the renewable energy transition.
“As the VFF has repeatedly said, a state-wide plan for transmission infrastructure that protects agricultural production and the rights of landowners must be developed.
“We want to see the planning powers of the Australian Energy Market Operator rescinded and for the government take full responsibility for planning of transmission infrastructure.”
The VFF wanted “political leaders to take notice of decisions that are impacting Victorian farmers and their communities”, Ms Germano said.