Senate Inquiry Announced into Offshore Wind Consultation Processes

In a win for the community, a Senate Inquiry into offshore wind consultation processes was announced on 3 July 2024. The motion was put forward by NSW National Senator Ross Cadell and saw that Lidia Thorpe Independent supported an amended motion to get it across the line by 31 to 30 votes.

Senator Cadell had previously urged Illawarra community members to reach out to Senators Lidia Thorpe and David Pocock during his visit to the Illawarra on June 17, 2024. It is hoped that this community support had a bearing on the vote cast by Senator Thorp in support of the Inquiry.

Terms of Reference of the Offshore Wind Senate Inquiry

The consultation process undertaken on behalf of the Australian Government into the offshore wind industry, with particular reference to:

(a) the efficacy of community engagement and benefit in planning, developing and operating the offshore wind industry;
(b) community engagement within the existing Australian Government offshore wind industry regulatory and legislative frameworks;
(c) the adherence to the principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent from Traditional Owners of the affected Sea Country by the Australian Government and offshore wind industry;
(d) the impact of the offshore wind industry on marine life and marine environments in Australian waters, including strategies for impact minimisation and management; and
(e) any other related matters.

Important Dates

Submissions close on 30 August and the report is due on the last sitting day in February 2025.

Political Dynamics

Notably, all Labor and Greens politicians voted against this inquiry, a fact that may have significant implications for future electoral considerations. This should be something we remember when voting.

Community Gratitude

The Illawarra community extends its gratitude to Senator Ross Cadell for initiating this motion and for his efforts to mobilise support among impacted communities to engage with politicians effectively.

This inquiry represents a pivotal opportunity for communities across Australia to express their views and concerns about offshore wind consultation processes.

Making a Submission for the Senate Inquiry

A detailed guide has been prepared to help you make a submission to the senate inquiry. This includes tips and background information. You can access the guide by clicking on this button:

Note that the focus of the inquiry is on consultation processes – not on the merits of the proposal or your concerns about aspects such as the environmental, technical or economic issues with what’s proposed.

Submissions are to be made by this government website. We have also prepared screenshots to walk you through how to make a submission on this page on our website.

Please use the resources required to make a submission to this important inquiry and ensure your voice can be heard.