Eastern Victoria Region
Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (12:54): (664) The weather events of last week left over 500,000 houses with no power and no certainty around when it would be restored. This caused great disruption and stress to the people of Eastern Victoria Region – to homes, businesses and schools. But for those fortunate enough to have gas cooking appliances, at least they could still cook a meal. However, as of this year Labor’s ban on gas connections in new homes means that many will not have this backup. This is absolutely outrageous. Last week’s power outages are a perfect example of exactly why this policy will not work. Having a range of energy sources provides security for Victorians: if one source fails, we have a backup. My question is for the Minister for Energy and Resources. Victorians need energy security, and last week’s events highlight the impracticality of your ban on gas. Will you repeal it?