Wednesday, 29 October 2025

 David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan) (12:01): (1093) It was deeply disturbing for communities living near the West Gate Tunnel to learn that the flaws in the design of the ventilation stacks will greatly increase exposure to pollution of nearby residences, sporting fields and businesses. An expert engineering report concluded that, due to the low air-volume propelling velocity of the five vents within each stack, the exhaust fumes are likely to slide down the structure’s facade and into surrounding areas, increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. It concluded that the only feasible option to reduce the risk to community is to install pollution filters. Transurban has now applied for an operating licence. I ask: will the minister hold a conference of interested parties to review the new evidence and ensure that the operating licence is withheld until the filters are installed?

The PRESIDENT: Mr Ettershank, was that for roads or environment?

David ETTERSHANK: For the Minister for Environment, sorry.

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:03): I thank Mr Ettershank for his question, which will be referred to the Minister for Environment for a response.

 David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan) (12:03): The decision to forgo filtration on the West Gate Tunnel stacks was made in 2017 by the then Minister for Planning Richard Wynne, who was dubious about the cost-effectiveness. The updated Environmental Protection Act 2017 – the 2021 update – mandates a preventative focus to address harms to health that may be cumulative and arise from a range of factors, so it is likely that the EPA would now advise to install those filters. The cost of installing air filtration on the tunnel’s ventilation stacks would make a tangible difference in reducing residents’ exposure to emissions and the consequential health impacts. In light of the new evidence of the flawed design of the ventilation stacks and the updated EPA act, will the minister commit to installing filters before the tunnel is operational?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:04): Again, I thank Mr Ettershank for his question. This matter will be referred to the Minister for Environment, as will the substantive, and I am sure that he will respond as per the standing orders.