A bill to ban new offshore oil and gas projects has been re-introduced into Victoria’s parliament.
The Greens have put forward the bill, wanting an immediate ban on any future offshore drilling.
Geelong-based member for Western Victoria Sarah Mansfield said there were more than a dozen gas projects in the works across Victoria, including off the 12 Apostles national park.
That was on top of seismic blasting that is due to start this year between Victoria and Tasmania.
“Seismic blasting and offshore drilling for oil and gas spells disaster for our oceans, and for our climate,” Dr Mansfield said.
“The science is clear – we need to get off gas, not open up new areas for exploration.
“If these projects proceed, it will be years, even decades, until the gas comes online.”
Dr Mansfield and the Greens are calling for the government to invest in renewable energy sources.
