Firmer line on fracking
ALP to formalise ban in Constitution
LABOR has vowed to enshrine a ban on fracking in the state’s Constitution if it is returned to power at next week’s election.
Premier Daniel Andrews was in Moriac yesterday to make the announcement, which comes two years after Victoria passed laws to permanently ban fracking, also known as coal-seam gas extraction.
Mr Andrews said enshrining the ban in the Constitution would ensure protections for farmland and the state’s “clean green” reputation around the world.
“What this means is we’ll put beyond the reach of some in politics and their drilling mates, we will put it beyond their reach to start smashing up our wine country, our dairy country, our tourism assets, in order to secure corporate profits,” he said.
“We think that these assets are precious and we should do everything to safeguard them.”
On top of the move to strengthen the fracking ban, Labor has pledged $1 million for export-focused marketing activities, which would promote the state’s green food and fibre sector to the world.
Labor candidate for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman said his party’s promises would have a broad range of benefits for the local community.
“The Surf Coast is renowned for its excellent produce. Banning fracking for good is not only great for local farmers, but great for tourism as well,” he said.
During his visit to the region yesterday, Mr Andrews also announced plans to slash camping fees in half at all state and national parks in Victoria.
He said a re-elected Labor government would also invest $105.6 million into creating more camping grounds, better four-wheel-drive tracks and new walking trails.
“Camping is more than just a great hobby, it’s big business for our regional and rural towns,” Mr Andrews said.
“It’s more customers for our shops, cafes and tourist attractions — and that means more jobs for Victorians.”