Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Stopping Wind Farms in State Forests Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Monday 3 November 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned a bill introduced by Independent member Andrew Gee to prohibit wind farm construction in state forests, specifically softwood pine plantations. Gee argued that current state regulations have failed to protect residents from the negative impacts of nearby turbines, citing stress and property devaluation. He proposed using federal corporations powers to override state laws. Katter's Australian Party member Bob Katter seconded the motion, highlighting environmental concerns and past failures in wind farm decommissioning.

Outcome

The motion for the second reading was moved by Andrew Gee and seconded by Bob Katter.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Andrew Gee (Calare) (Independent) Ind

Gee argued that the bill was necessary to address the distress caused to residents by wind farm proposals in state forests, particularly softwood pine plantations. Gee claimed that developers prioritised profit over community well-being, placing turbines close to homes and ignoring meaningful consultation. Gee asserted that state planning laws had failed to regulate these developments adequately, leading to social conflict and environmental degradation. Gee proposed using the federal corporations power to ban such constructions, overriding state legislation to protect affected communities.