Opened the debate
Tehan argued against the establishment of an offshore wind farm zone off the coast of Warrnambool and Port Fairy, stating it was located near a whale-breeding zone without prior environmental study or community consultation. Tehan claimed that offshore wind is an expensive energy source and cited a 39 per cent increase in electricity bills under the current government while emissions had flatlined. Tehan urged the Minister for Climate Change and Energy to cancel the zone to protect biodiversity and local interests. Tehan also addressed the approaching fire season, advising volunteers to complete minimum skills training and landholders to prepare their properties. Furthermore, he reported that constituents were deeply concerned about the state of roads, particularly potholes, and the rising cost of groceries, insurance, and energy. Tehan asserted that Australia was experiencing the largest fall in living standards among OECD countries and called for government action to ease these pressures. Finally, he highlighted the importance of community volunteers and announced his upcoming Sport and Volunteer Awards.