Terms of Reference

Proposed Eastlink High Voltage Powerline Between Armidale, New South Wales, and Springdale, Queensland

On 30 March the Australian Senate referred to the Senate Economics References Committee the following matters for inquiry and report on or before 28 September 1995:

1. 1. the possible impact of the powerline and the accompanying land resumptions on:
      1. the health of people and animals in surrounding a with particular reference to the likely effects of electromagnetic field radiation,
      2. the vegetation and overall environment, and
      3. the social fabric and local economic viability of surrounding communities, including the likely loss agricultural land;                                           
   2. the overall economic impact of the powerline;
   3. the likely impact of the powerline on overall levels of electricity consumption, with reference to Australia's obligations and commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
   4. the viability of the use of renewable energy sources including hydro‑electricity to provide electricity to Queensland consumers; and
   5. the adequacy of the community consultation process undertaken by Government bodies with those people and local authorities in the areas which will be affected by the powerline
2. That, in conducting and reporting on the inquiry, the Committee consider whether or not the Eastlink proposal takes sufficiently into account the reservations contained in the 1992 report of the former Standing Committee on Industry Science and Technology on gas and electricity.

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