Dear Editor,
For too long, those affected most by the transition to renewables haven’t been given a voice.
The Nationals are bringing it back. Locals will come first – ahead of multi-national corporations and the insatiable appetite for rushing through renewables projects.
When in government, the first move will be to restore the “third umpire” and return the right of appeal to VCAT.
Right now, the lack of an avenue of appeal for landowners deeply affected is simply un-Australian.
We will also institute a default 2km buffer zone around proposed wind towers to minimise the impact on residential properties and nearby communities.
And importantly, we will advocate to the Commonwealth that any compensation received by landowners for hosting major transmission lines, or for impacts caused by such projects, is exempt from taxation.
Not only are we giving communities a voice, but we are also protecting them.
Locals should always come first.
Leader of The Nationals
Peter Walsh MP
