The Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy says the Federal Government isn't doing enough to keep Hunter and Central Coast residents in the loop about a proposed local wind farm project.
The almost 3,000 square kilometre Hunter Offshore Wind Zone extends from Port Stephens in the north to Norah Head in the south.
It's possible turbines could be placed within 10 kilometres of the shore.
Meeting with members of the Love Norah Head community group this week, Ted O'Brien was told the residents are concerned about the project's potential impacts on the local economy, marine environment, fishing industry and surfers.
He says, community consultation needs to be properly carried out.
"They want to be heard they want their questions answered," he said.
"There was nothing put to me by the community that was unreasonable. No one was out there campaigning against action on climate change or the need for renewable energy sources; they were just going back to basics saying "If you're going to change our way of life, shouldn't we have a say?"
"I'll be making representations to the Minister and the government on their behalf, and we have to remember that it is local, regional communities that are on the frontline of Australia's energy transition, and their voice must be heard and listened to."
