The Queensland Government has opened a consultation period on the development of the Moonlight Range Wind Farm as part of its commitment to ensure renewable energy projects in the state are impact assessable.
The State Government said development approval for the project, located 40km northwest of Rockhampton has been issued with a proposed ‘call in’ notice that allows submissions to be made from community members, local governments and other stakeholders.
The consultation period is 40 business days and will close on 14 March 2025.
Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said that all projects – whether they are renewable energy, agriculture or mining – should be subject to the same rigorous approvals process, including community consultation.
“We will amend the assessment process to deliver this certainty to Queenslanders.”
Mr Bleijie said the introduction of an impact assessment framework for renewable energy projects and approval processes consistent with other land uses will provide certainty for the community and industry.
Queensland Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the opening of the consultation period of the Moonlight Range Wind Farm gives the surrounding community a chance to have their voices heard.
The State Government said three other applications for wind farms currently under assessment in north Queensland, central Queensland and south-west Queensland have also been paused to ensure community consultation and impact assessments has been undertaken.
