Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, is urging local residents to make submissions to the newly announced Parliamentary inquiry into proposed waste-to-energy incinerators including at Tarago.
The inquiry follows widespread concern that almost one million tonnes of Sydney’s waste could be redirected for incineration in regional NSW each year – including 380,000 tonnes earmarked for Tarago.
Mrs Tuckerman said the inquiry was a vital opportunity for the community to raise concerns about health, environmental and agricultural impacts.
“Regional NSW should not be treated as Sydney’s dumping ground,” Mrs Tuckerman said. “This is our chance to make sure the voices of our community are heard loud and clear.”
The inquiry will investigate the safety, health, and environmental impacts of proposed waste-to-energy facilities at Tarago and Parkes. Key areas of focus include:
• Whether the proposed technologies match international best practice.
• The spread and quality of emissions and how they are monitored.
• Potential health impacts, including effects on drinking water, rainwater harvesting, and soil.
• Risks to agriculture such as sheep, cattle, and crop production across the region.
• Long-term impacts of waste dumping in Tarago.
• Specific implications for the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
• Lessons from older incinerator technology compared to newer proposals.
The inquiry will also consider broader related matters to ensure regional communities are not unfairly burdened with Sydney’s waste.
Residents can find detailed information on how to make a submission by visiting wendytuckerman.com. Submissions are open now and will close on Friday, 31 October 2025.
“Every submission counts,” Mrs Tuckerman said. “Whether you’re worried about emissions, transport risks, or the long-term impact on agriculture and local health – your input is crucial.”
WENDY TUCKERMAN 