Federal Nationals Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold, has welcomed the decision by Norwegian energy giant Equinor to abandon the Hunter Offshore Wind project, and has called for the Albanese Government to back the community and rescind the offshore wind zone.
The project had been a key part of the Albanese Government’s clean energy strategy, with a feasibility licence offered to the Norwegian company by the federal government in February 2024.
After strong and sustained opposition from local community groups, businesses, and residents concerned about harm to marine ecosystems and local tourism and fishing, Ms Penfold said the decision is a clear victory for the community and those who stood firm against the project.
“Equinor walking away from this project is a huge win for the region – a community that saw from the very beginning that the Hunter coast was never the right place for an industrial offshore wind farm,” Ms Penfold said.
“This project would have had devastating impacts both offshore and onshore, including through a Ramsar wetland.
“But the job is not yet done. The Albanese Government’s proposal to now make the area available for offshore wind research and development leaves the community even more exposed with less transparency and less regulatory rigour around projects.
“The government must walk away from offshore wind in this area by now rescinding the zone completely. That is the only way the community can have the certainty they deserve,” she added.
Ms Penfold commended everyone in the community who has been part of the campaign, including the Responsible Renewable Committee Port Stephens Myall Coast (RRC) and the Newcastle Port Stephens Game Fish Club (NPSGFC) for their persistent and dedicated efforts in opposing the project.
“Both the RRC and the NPSGFC stood shoulder to shoulder with this community, armed with facts and unwavering conviction. They weren’t backed by any powerful interest – but they were backing their community. I especially want to acknowledge the NPSGFC Club’s President, Troy Radford, for his leadership.”
The NPSGFC, which has been at the forefront of the community campaign, is now calling on the Albanese Government to revoke the Hunter offshore wind zone once and for all.
“If the Government is serious about listening to the community, they must act now to cancel this zone,” Mr Radford said.
“Our ocean is not an industrial site – it’s a living environment, a fishing ground, and the heart of a thriving coastal economy. Until the zone is removed, we will continue to fight to protect our waters for future generations.”
