Reliable energy is essential for regional communities. But across Indi, too many towns, including Euroa, Bethanga and Corryong have experienced prolonged power outages, especially during heatwaves, bushfires and floods. 

That’s why I’ve been working to support practical solutions that improve energy security for regional communities. 

Microgrids are one of the most effective solutions to this issue. By combining solar, batteries and backup generation to power homes, businesses and essential community facilities, a microgrid can disconnect from the main electricity network in times of need such as bushfires, and continue supplying power locally. 

And microgrids are already making a difference. Following the Black Summer bushfires, Commonwealth investment helped develop a microgrid in Corryong, improving the community’s resilience. 

Indi is also leading innovative local energy projects. The Jamieson Community Energy Node Project is another example of a locally driven energy solution. This battery and solar panel solution on the Jamieson Memorial Hall stores up to 3 days of autonomous power to give access to telecommunications and a safe place with power for the community in disasters. 

These projects demonstrate that renewable energy isn’t just about reducing emissions – it’s also about keeping the lights on and access to telecommunications when communities need them most. 

I’ll continue advocating for greater investment in regional energy resilience so more communities across Indi can access practical solutions that improve reliability, reduce outages and strengthen preparedness for future emergencies. 

Indi is home to some of Australia’s most spectacular natural environments – from the High Country to the Murray River. These places support tourism, and provide habitat for some of our most precious native species. 

Across Indi there are 63 Landcare and ‘friends of’ groups, each bringing its own focus, passion and expertise to build diverse and resilient landscapes and communities. 

Since I was elected in 2019, I have been a strong advocate for stronger environmental protections. Our community cares deeply about nature, and I’ve consistently called for reforms that better protect our landscapes, waterways and biodiversity. 

Australia’s environmental laws need to work better. I supported reforms to strengthen the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, including stronger penalties for environmental harm, improved environmental information and better decision-making. And I secured an agreement from the Government to develop a National Environmental Standard on community engagement to ensure our communities have a say in projects that impact protected species in our region. 

We already see the impacts of climate change. Through more severe bushfires and floods, and drier seasons that place pressure on agricultural production and Alpine tourism. We need practical, science-based action that protects nature and supports communities to adapt.  

I’ll continue fighting for stronger environmental protections and ensure the natural places that make our region so special are protected for generations to come.  

Indi wants practical energy solutions that deliver cheaper power. That’s why the Cheaper Home Batteries program, which started here in Indi, has been such a success. Businesses and manufactures want this too. Indi is among the top electorates in Victoria for home battery installations.  

Renewable energy is helping businesses and manufactures reduce costs and lower emissions.  

Manufacturing is one of Australia’s biggest energy users, and many businesses rely on gas to produce the heat needed for their operations. But new technologies are creating opportunities for manufacturers to save money on their energy bills and transition to cleaner and more cost-efficient energy sources.  

Mars Petcare in Wodonga is a great example. With support from CSIRO through the Renewable Heat Industrial Decarbonisation (RHID) program, and a $17.2 million Federal Government investment, Mars is reducing its reliance on gas through Concentrated Solar Thermal technology an Electric Thermal Energy Storage, which is expected to operate on 100% renewable energy by 2026.  

This project demonstrates how renewable energy can help businesses, workers and local economies. By investing in these new technologies, manufacturers can improve productivity, reduce operating costs and support local jobs while cutting emissions. 

Governments have an important role to play in helping businesses access industrial decarbonisation that will help keep Australian manufacturing competitive.  

Doing this will help protect jobs, lower emissions and provide jobs and affordable, environmentally sustainable products. 

I’ll continue to advocate to the Government that regional manufactures want and need the support of programs like the RHID to help reduce their energy costs and remain viable local employers for years to come. 

There are grid-scale renewable energy projects operating, under construction and being proposed across Indi.  

When done well, and with genuine community engagement, these projects can deliver long-term benefits for regional communities. There are already examples of multi-million-dollar community funds being established in places like Dubbo and Armidale. 

Communities deserve clear information and a meaningful say in these projects. Renewable energy development must be done responsibly, with environmental protections, proper planning and early and genuine consultation.  

Resources are available to help communities and landholders better understand renewable energy proposals:  

• Victorian Government Community Engagement and Social Value Guidelines for renewable energy and transmission projects (2026) 

• Community Power Agency Power in Partnership: A guide to developing community stake in renewable energy (2026) 

• Re-Alliance – Refurbishment, Repowering or Retirement Guide (2025)  

• The Energy Charter – Better Practice Social Licence Guideline (2023)  

• Queensland Farmers Federation – Renewable Energy Landholder Toolkit (2023) NOTE: this is specific to Queensland’s regulation, however includes very helpful checklists for landholders to assist in considering renewable energy projects on their land.    

• Clean Energy Council – Guide to Benefit Sharing Options for Renewable Energy Projects (2019)  

The Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner (AEIC) is an independent office that assists people with enquiries and complaints about new and existing grid-scale energy projects. The AEIC also provides resources on best-practice community engagement, landholder information and safety.