Media Release: Coal Australia Powers Local Debate with Federal Election Candidates in Whitlam and Cunningham

Coal Australia’s CEO Stuart Bocking moderated the event, which was hosted at Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club.

“The event provided locals with the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on their plans to tackle cost of living pressures, the importance of coal in the energy security debate, and how policy decisions will impact jobs, housing affordability, and regional development in their communities”, Mr Bocking said.

The Cunningham panellists included Amanda Ivaneza for the Liberals and Greens candidate Jess Whittaker. Labor MP Alison Byrnes gave an opening address, and answered some questions before departing for another commitment.

The Whitlam panel featured Nathaniel Smith from the Liberals, Sharon Cousins from One Nation and Jamie Dixon for the Greens. Carol Berry is contesting Whitlam for Labor, following the retirement of Stephen Jones – she also attended to deliver an opening address.

Cost of living and energy security were central themes of the evening. Nathaniel Smith defended the coalition’s stance on nuclear power, stating that Australia “needs base load power” and we should follow suit of “the other 20 leading economies around the world” which have successfully incorporated nuclear into their energy mix.

This was echoed by Amanda Ivaneza who emphasised time pressures and how “we need to push through with nuclear and get going now”.

Sharon Cousins declared coal as a key resource, stating that One Nation will bolster energy security “by running coal plants 24/7 and reducing energy bills by 20 per-cent”.

The issue of offshore wind farms has been a hugely contentious issue in Illawarra, and Jamie Dixon was questioned on previous statements that he did not feel the issue was a vote changer – the views of the audience suggested otherwise.

Mr Dixon promoted wind power as a major energy source, detailing how he has previously lived in Scotland and Holland where “wind farms are a part of life”. This sparked some jeering from attendees, with one asking, “but where will we put them?”.

Ms Ivaneza highlighted the limited lifespan of these windfarms, creating “off-shore graveyards” which are a “reality” of the power source.

When queried about Anthony Albanese’s stated refusal to do a deal with the Greens to form minority government, Jess Whittaker appeared unconvinced, telling attendees “if Mr Albanese wants to turn away from that, he doesn’t have many options”.

Mr Bocking helped facilitate engagement between the candidates, took questions from the floor, and ensured more Coal Australia merchandise found a new home.

Coal Australia is hosting further Meet the Candidates events across regional New South Wales and Queensland – the next one is in Rockhampton on 30 April with candidates covering the Capricornia electorate.