Victorian Nationals: Melina Bath MP - Parliamentary Committee visit to South Gippsland highlights region's...

State Parliament's Environment and Planning Committee visited South Gippsland to hear from local government, industry and community perspectives on the decommissioning of the oil and gas industry.

The visit involved a tour of Esso's Barry Beach Marine Terminal at Corner Inlet and a community session in Leongatha as part of the Parliamentary Inquiry into Decommissioning Oil and Gas Infrastructure.

Committee member and The Nationals' Melina Bath said the visit showcased South Gippsland's long-established capacity to support major projects.

"For almost 60 years South Gippsland has been central to Victoria's energy needs.

"Barry Beach and Esso's Bass Strait operations has delivered stable skilled employment and established the region's offshore energy industry.

"Being the first major decommissioning project of its kind in Australia, it's vital strong environmental standards are maintained to give locals confidence and protect our coastline.

"Esso explained it is committed to safety, environmental care, supporting local workers, applying best-practice science and meeting its legal duties."

Ms Bath said the Committee heard strong evidence about the infrastructure required to support decommissioning and the region's potential transition to renewables.

"South Gippsland Shire Council reinforced the need for government investment in transport infrastructure, so decommissioning proceeds safely and efficiently for locals.

"It was made clear increased workforce and freight movements will place pressure on local roads and services, and targeted government support and community benefit schemes are needed to prevent communities from bearing the brunt of these impacts.

"The visit demonstrated with proper investment, the transition of industries can strengthen local employment, services and community outcomes.

"Importantly, improving core infrastructure also positions South Gippsland to seize future opportunities in offshore energy, with ports like Barry Beach central to long-term operations and maintenance.

"State and Federal government must ensure host regions like ours see real returns, including secure jobs, strong infrastructure and long-term economic gains."

The Committee will report to the Parliament by June 2026.

Media contact - Jenni Rohde 0437 750806