Thursday, 7 March 2024

Hyzon Motors

Eden FOSTER (Mulgrave) (17:19): (576) My adjournment this evening is for the Minister for Precincts. The action I seek from the minister is to visit the first localised manufacturing facility of zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell powered commercial vehicles in Australia, located in my electorate of Mulgrave, and to discuss the potential for its integration into precincts across Victoria. Hyzon Motors is a global leader in high-power fuel cell technology and has chosen to establish Australia’s first localised manufacturing plant in Melbourne’s south-east. This new facility has created over 50 ‍skilled jobs, including engineers, fabricators, welders and designers, showcasing the talent in our local industry and south-east manufacturing prowess. It has allowed many workers from the car manufacturing sector to utilise their skills following the end of Australia’s car manufacturing industry.

However, the significance of Hyzon’s contribution extends beyond just job creation. It aligns with the Victorian government’s targets for carbon emission reduction. With the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2045, including a 50 per cent reduction target by 2030, initiatives like Hyzon Motors are crucial. Given that transportation accounts for approximately 25 per cent of carbon emissions, transitioning to zero-emissions vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells is imperative. Hyzon Motors has been involved in developing the Victorian freight industry decarbonisation plan, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable transport solutions. Having recently visited Hyzon Motors myself, I saw firsthand the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology. I believe that discussing these opportunities with the minister will shed light on how we can integrate these solutions into precincts statewide. I look forward to the minister’s visit to Hyzon Motors and the productive discussion that will follow as we explore avenues for advancing sustainable practices in Victoria’s precincts.