Victorian Opposition Leader and Coalition MPs Connect with Industry
From left to right: Wayne Farnham MP, Danny O’Brien MP, Brad Battin MP and Martin Cameron MP
From community safety to education, energy, building and planning regulations, and economic development, key issues shaping Gippsland's future were front and centre at a roundtable discussion hosted by Committee for Gippsland with Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin MP.
Mr Battin was joined by fellow MPs, including Danny O’Brien MP (Member for South Gippsland), Wayne Farnham MP (Member for Narracan), Martin Cameron MP (Member for Morwell), and the Hon David Davis (Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources).
The day began with a broad industry roundtable attended by leaders from key sectors, followed by a site visit to EnergyAustralia’s Yallourn coal power station. Mr Battin later participated in a focused discussion on offshore wind and the opportunities emerging as part of Gippsland’s transition to renewable energy.
Committee for Gippsland CEO Tony Cantwell and Board Chair Sean Dignum welcomed the visiting MPs and thanked them for taking the time to engage directly with local industry and community representatives.
“As Gippsland’s peak industry body, Committee for Gippsland is committed to working constructively with all levels of government to ensure the region continues to receive the attention and support it needs”, said Mr Cantwell.
“As we transition away from some of our long-established industries like coal and native timber, it’s critical that this change is managed thoughtfully and strategically. These shifts bring real challenges, but also enormous opportunity.
“Strong collaboration between government, industry and community is essential to minimise disruption and deliver long-term benefits, whether through the development of new industries like offshore wind, expanded education and training pathways, or continued investment in regional infrastructure.
“It was an excellent opportunity to brief Mr Battin and his colleagues on Gippsland’s key priorities and to have them hear directly from local industry leaders”, he said.
C4G Board Chair Sean Dignum said the visit was a valuable opportunity to highlight the strong partnerships driving progress across the region.
“Open and ongoing dialogue is essential to ensure Gippsland remains front of mind in statewide policy discussions”, Mr Dignum said.
“Our industries are more aligned than ever. There’s a shared recognition that, to keep moving forward, we need to work together - finding common ground, even when that means navigating different views. It’s about shaping a vision that puts our communities first.
“This visit gave our local leaders a chance to share, firsthand, the strengths, challenges, and potential of our region. It also allowed decision-makers to see, on the ground, the momentum we’ve built and the ambition we share”, he said.
Committee for Gippsland was proud to facilitate these important conversations and looks forward to continuing its engagement with Mr Battin and other Victorian leaders to support a thriving and resilient future for Gippsland.