Federal Government Approves 100-Turbine Robbins Island Wind Farm Amid Endangered Parrot Concerns

The Australian federal government has approved the controversial $1.6 billion Robbins Island wind farm project in Tasmania, featuring 100 turbines expected to power over 400,000 homes and reduce emissions by 3.4 million tonnes annually. Environment Minister Murray Watt emphasized the project's strict compliance with 88 conditions designed to protect threatened species, including the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot, Tasmanian devils, and migratory shorebirds, with measures such as comprehensive wildlife surveys, bird and bat management plans, and barriers to prevent the spread of disease to the island's devils. The decision follows eight years of delays, court battles, and appeals, drawing criticism from some conservation groups concerned about the wind farm's impact on wildlife, particularly the parrot's migratory path. Despite these concerns, the project has been welcomed by Tasmania's government, business community, and ACEN Australia as a significant investment advancing the clean energy transition and local economy. Construction is expected to begin in 2031, creating hundreds of jobs and reflecting a broader national push to increase renewable energy while balancing environmental protections. Minister Watt acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but stressed the necessity of renewable projects to address climate change.