Last week I wrote to the independent offshore gas regulator, NOPSEMA, to voice my concerns and the concerns of my community regarding a seismic exploration proposal by TGS-SLB in Victoria's Otway Basin. I requested that NOPSEMA halt the approval process in light of 'the deeply flawed and insufficient consultation process' conducted by the companies. Surfers, First Nations people, fishers and community groups have all come to me to express their frustration. I included their criticisms in my letter. These included poor advertising of public meetings, long and often confusing documents, a lack of transparency and clarity, avoidance of face-to-face meetings, and a failure to consult with culturally appropriate people.

Overall, these groups stressed that consultation was neither sufficient, meaningful nor accessible and did not meet regulatory permit requirements. Seismic exploration is carried out using underwater air guns which generate sound waves to find gas reservoirs beneath the ocean.

If consultation is not conducted properly, it can have adverse implications for our environment, our marine life, jobs and the economy. That's why it's important for the regulator look more closely at this proposal. I will meet with NOPSEMA this week to discuss this significant issue for my community, who love our coastal environment. Like them, I know our oceans are such an important part of our way of life.