Petition Rehabilitation of the Hazelwood Power Station

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council to the unutilised Hazelwood Power Station open cut mine site in the Latrobe Valley and the loss of local trade expertise following industrial closures. Leaving the site disused risks placing an environmental and economic burden on future generations, while skilled local tradespeople lack structured avenues to pass their knowledge onto young apprentices.

The Government should support and fund the rehabilitation of the Hazelwood Power Station opencut mine site hydro power hub. Specifically, by commissioning a formal feasibility study into converting the Hazelwood brownfield site into a closed-loop pumped hydro and storage facility, drawing on Australian National University research. Integrating local trade mentorship programs into the project to pair experienced Latrobe Valley tradespeople with apprentices, keeping critical industrial skills within the region. Prioritising clean energy infrastructure that optimises land and water usage while delivering lower energy costs, grid stability, and long-term environmental rehabilitation for the community.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council to call on the Government to support and fund the rehabilitation of the Hazelwood Power Station opencut mine site hydro power hub, commission a feasibility study into converting the site into a closed-loop pumped hydro and storage facility, integrate local trade mentorship programs into the project and prioritise clean energy infrastructure.