COMMITTEES

Senator BELL (New South Wales—Pauline Hanson's One Nation Whip) (16:15): I move: That the following matter be referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 30 June 2026: The impact of proposed renewable energy projects on regional communities including the Lambruk Solar Project near Loomberah, New South Wales, with particular reference to: (a) the use of prime agricultural land for industrial-scale renewable energy development; (b) the effect on family farming operations, food and fibre production and local property values; (c) the social, mental health and financial impacts on residents and farming families; (d) risks to aquifers and soil degradation; (e) the adequacy of dust and noise mitigation measures; (f) the impact of increased heavy vehicle traffic on local roads and council infrastructure; (g) the involvement of energy companies such as Venn Energy Inc. and other overseas investors; (h) the level of benefit or disadvantage to affected Australian communities; (i) any national interest implications arising from foreign control of energy assets; (j) the adequacy of current federal and state planning, zoning and approval processes for renewable energy developments on rural land; and (k) any other related matters.