The Port of Hastings expansion plans have far reaching effects. The Westernport Action Group has concerns about the following topics:-

• Destruction of globally significant mangroves.
• Construction and shipping destroying seagrass diversity in Westernport Bay.
• Wake damage to shorelines.
• Increased risks of oil spills in the bay, and the rapid transfer of spills to the rest of the bay.
• Quick responses to Oil spills and bay damage recovery chances.
• Effects on fishing and other recreation in and around the bay.
• Deterioration of the rural aspect of the region.
• Industry growth and the ugliness associated with industrial estates
• Increased air, water and noise pollution.
• Population increases and affiliated effects.
• Impacts of associated infrastructure upgrades and implementation.
• Effect on flora and fauna and wildlife corridors, including the Southern Brown Bandicoot.
• Stability of property values and impact on human lifestyles in the region.
• Increased shipping encroaching on recreational marine activities.
• Land acquisitions, public and private. (Click here for information on Public Acquisition Laws and other information)
• Proximity of all developments to schools, residences, farms and parklands.
• Project presenting a doorway to nuclear power in this state.
• Effect on public safety due to associated traffic and types of traffic used to move product.
• Effect in all suburbs along proposed freight routes.
• Sustainability and feasibility of such a project.
• Existing ports already able to cope with demand for years to come.
• Land grabs in Melbourne and around Westernport could be concerning.
• Proposals and documentation are already casting a shadow of doubt and concern amongst the public and business.
• Who will truly benefit from such a project, all Victorians, or just a few?
• Employment opportunities may be had, but under what terms and pay rates?
• Does our economy need to grow, can we continue on in a sustainable fashion?

These issues must be addressed and some thorough research must be done before these plans continue. It is a huge project. It will effect all Victorians, it requires massive consultation and research. But most of all, it requires approval from all Victorians.