Wednesday, 17 August 2022

 Ms SHING (Eastern Victoria—Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Equality) (12:10): I would like to talk today about the improvements that are happening in renewable energy across the water sector in Victoria. What we have seen as a consequence of the tireless work of my predecessor, Minister Neville in the other place, is a statement of obligation which has committed all 18 water corporations across Victoria to achieving 100 per cent of renewable energy across electricity by 1 July 2025 and total net zero emissions by 1 July 2035. This is an Australian first, and it was a delight to join the extraordinary member for Buninyong, Michaela Settle from the other place, at the Ballarat South wastewater treatment plant last Friday. It may have been raining, but Central Highlands Water’s 6336 solar panels have certainly been put to good use.

As part of this overall commitment to achieving net zero emissions, we have seen water corporations across the board speed toward achievement of these targets well ahead of schedule. In addition to Central Highlands Water, we have also got Barwon Water’s Colac renewable organics network, Yarra Valley Water’s waste-to-energy facility in Wollert and Wannon Water’s 800-kilowatt wind turbines. Despite all of the churn from those opposite—if that were renewable energy, gee, wouldn’t you be in luck there—as far as leadership aspirations are concerned, what you would be in a position to see is commitment to our renewable energy target. Not only did you vote it down, but despite that we are continuing with the work to deliver on our targets and to make sure Victoria leads the way.