Tuesday, 17 June 2025

Western Victoria Region

Sarah MANSFIELD (Western Victoria) (14:09): (1635) My question is for the Minister for Planning. Many Geelong residents have shared with me their distress following the government’s decision to approve Viva’s floating gas terminal in Corio Bay. The Viva Energy gas terminal would be responsible for 600,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas pollution per year. It would lock in higher gas usage for decades and is inconsistent with Victoria’s climate targets. Our community is calling for strong commitment to a net-zero goal through more incentives to transition towards efficient electrical appliances and solar power, including for businesses, landlords and low-income earners – not more gas. Could the minister please explain to my constituents how approving this project in Corio Bay is consistent with the government’s renewable energy target of 95 per cent by 2035?