Or read on for our suggestions about what to put in your submission…

Below are suggested answers to the questions the government is asking about the proposed Illawarra Offshore Renewable Energy Zone. If you have time, we suggest using these to write your own words and opinions, either in the survey or in your own written submission.

Which of the following best describes your standpoint on the proposed area?

Click ‘Supportive’.

Environment: Please outline any benefits, issues or concerns related to the environment.

In principle, I support offshore wind because I recognise that replacing polluting coal and gas with renewable energy will help reduce carbon emissions that cause climate change, which is the greatest threat to the environment.

It is really important to me that the design has minimal impact on impacts on whales, dolphins, birdlife and other wildlife. Equally, the environmental benefits of the turbines, such as new underwater habitats, should be maximised. Special attention must be given to the migration routes, breeding grounds and foraging areas of wildlife.

Community and onshore transmission: Please outline any benefits, issues or concerns.

To ensure a Just Transition for energy workers and communities, the Minister must require that Renewable Energy Projects:

• provide secure, quality jobs;

• provide minimum apprenticeship ratios, training and transition opportunities for energy workers;

• maximise Australian manufacturing for offshore wind, including wind turbine components, cables, and vessels; and

• ensure energy security for this region into the future;

• ensure shared financial benefits and community investment;

• provide benefits for First Nations people.

Fishing: Please outline any benefits, issues or concerns related to recreational or commercial fishing.

I support acting to replace coal and gas with renewable energy, given that climate change and the heating of the ocean poses the greatest threat to the health of fish stocks.

Community businesses, including fishing and tourism operators, that are negatively impacted by offshore wind should be appropriately compensated. Recreational fishers should be allowed to fish within the boundaries of offshore wind farms.

Visual impacts: Please outline any concerns or regard for the visual impact.

I understand there may be a negative visual impact of the wind turbines for some people. I believe that wherever possible, visual impacts should be minimised, but that the benefits of an offshore wind farm vastly outweigh any perceived negative visual impacts. It would make me feel proud to see the Illawarra leading innovation in renewable energy-production and doing what we can to provide a stable climate and secure economic future for our kids and our region.

Other: Please outline any other benefits, issues or concerns.

The government should include deep listening and co-design with traditional owners in any proposal. There should be continuous community education and engagement, and there should be measures introduced that keep development companies and the government accountable to the public.

That’s it - you’re ready to go. Thanks for speaking up for our planet and our kids.