The Australian Parliament has endorsed a package of new laws which will support the development of Australia’s offshore wind industry.
The three bills, which passed the final stage in the Senate today, establish the regulatory framework around electricity infrastructure projects in Commonwealth waters.
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor (pictured) said the new laws build on the Morrison Government’s “strong record” of enabling new renewables projects and the delivery of critical energy infrastructure.
Taylor said: “The Morrison Government’s offshore electricity infrastructure package will unlock development of a new industry that will create thousands of skilled regional jobs, strengthen our economy, and support a more affordable and secure energy system.
“Importantly, this framework enables the development of these new energy projects while safeguarding the environment, securing the health and safety of workers and protecting other maritime stakeholders.”
He said the legislation will accelerate a number of key projects already under development, including the 2.2GW Star of the South offshore wind project in Victoria, Sun Cable, and the Marinus Link transmission line, which will connect the mainland to Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation project.