Update

From 23 February 2023 to 28 April 2023 the Minister for Climate Change and Energy consulted on the area proposed for offshore wind development in the Pacific Ocean off the Hunter, New South Wales.

1916 submissions were received from members of the public, companies across various industries, non-government and community organisations, local and state government, peak bodies, and unions in response to the area being proposed.

Information about the area declared in the Pacific Ocean off the Hunter can be found on our website.

All public and anonymous submissions are available on this website, and a summary of all submissions and the consultation completed can be found below.

Only answers from respondents who gave permission have been published. However, all responses were considered by the Minister as part of this consultation.

Overview

We sought your feedback on the possible effects of future offshore renewable energy projects in the Pacific Ocean off Hunter, NSW. This includes offshore wind.

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy proposed an area in Australian Commonwealth waters off the Hunter region for offshore renewable energy projects. Commonwealth waters start 3 nautical miles from the coastline and extend to the boundary of Australia’s exclusive economic zone.

The Australian Government wants to manage the offshore marine environment in a way that recognises all users and balances competing interests. Offshore renewable energy projects must share the area with other users and activities.

The Minister has considered all submissions. Your feedback has helped to inform the Minister’s decision as to whether the proposed area is suitable for offshore renewable energy developments.

Consultation documents

Timeline

  • Open
    closed

    23 February 2023

  • Closed
    closed

    28 April 2023

  • Submissions published
    current

Contact
Offshore Renewable Energy Section