Abstract

The issue of energy has become a controversial topic of economic, scientific and policy debate amongst the Australian public. Rapid population increase, particularly in coastal areas, is putting increasing pressure on the natural environment through habitat loss, waste disposal and excessive wastage. This has led to the acceptance that all dimensions of society are affected by decisions pertaining to the environment and natural resources. This paper will address the identities of some of the major stakeholders, including the government, the public, and vulnerable groups such as indigenous groups and future generations.Serious discussion around the energy debate requires a balancing act between the competing interests of various stakeholders and varied interest groups. On one hand there is the desire to reverse the impact of environmental damage caused by energy consumption and production; on the other hand, this interest must be weighed up against the strong economic growth needed to maintain living standards and reduce poverty