The Andrews Labor Government’s move to permanently ban fracking for gas continues to build support with farmers near Victoria’s surf coast saying they want the practice outlawed for good.
Minister for Resources Wade Noonan was taken on a guided tour through a local farm in Bambra, inland of Aireys Inlet, where he spoke to community members opposed to fracking.
The area has a strong focus on sustainable agriculture, and some local farmers are actively engaged with the Lock the Gate campaign.
The Labor Government’s decision to ban fracking – a gas extraction technique which involves the hydraulic fracturing of rock and coal seams – was made in response to the 2015 Parliamentary Inquiry into Onshore Unconventional Gas in Victoria.
That inquiry received more than 1600 submissions, mostly opposed to onshore unconventional gas.
Victorian farmers export about $12 billion in food and fibre products a year, and the Government has made clear it won’t risk the clean and green reputation of our produce, or the 190,000 jobs in the sector.
In November, Mr Noonan introduced the Resources Legislation Amendment (Fracking Ban) Bill 2016 to Parliament. The legislation will outlaw gas fracking and coal seam gas extraction.
The new legislation also extends the moratorium on onshore conventional gas exploration and development to 30 June, 2020.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Resources Wade Noonan
“Victorians have made up their mind on fracking, and it’s great to hear first-hand accounts from members of the community who support putting an end to it.”
“The Bill currently before Parliament will ensure Victoria remains fracking-free to support food and fibre production across the state, and local jobs.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020