Tuesday, 7 February 2023

 Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (19:34): (20) The adjournment matter that I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for the State Electricity Commission, and strangely enough, it is regarding the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. The action I seek is that the minister provide any information on how the return of the SEC will benefit my constituents in Narre Warren South. It really is terrific to see the SEC coming back, and I know that on the campaign trail coming back to this place there were many constituents who spoke to me positively about the return of the SEC should an Andrews Labor government be returned for a third term.

In this state it has been known for many years that clean, reliable and renewable energy is the future. After years of going it alone, it is fantastic to see the new federal Labor government intending to support all of these new clean energy projects, investment and a clean energy future as well. The Andrews Labor government has already cut emissions by some 29.6 per cent below 2005 levels and has set targets of between a 75 and 80 per cent reduction by 2035 and net zero emissions by 2045. The SEC will help us to reach these targets.

Responsible government has to step up and indeed has stepped in to provide a true benchmark for the quality and value of services in order for the market to be truly competitive, just as this state government did with the Victorian default offer. The SEC likewise will be good for the energy consumer. I would appreciate any further information that the minister could provide on how the return of the SEC will benefit constituents in my electorate of Narre Warren South, and I look forward to sharing the minister’s response with my community.