The Wind Farm Industry Policy Statement will help wind farm operators decide whether to refer wind farm proposals for assessment and approval under national environment law.

"Wind energy has the potential to deliver a significant proportion of Australia's future electricity needs, and will play an important role in achieving our target of producing 20 per cent of our electricity needs from renewable sources by 2020," Mr Garrett said.

Responsibility for the assessment and approval of proposed wind farms rests primarily with the states and territories. However, under national environment law, the Federal Environment Minister plays a role where there are potential impacts on matters of national environmental significance.

The policy statement is the first of two key documents that will help assess wind farm developments. The second key document is the National Wind Farm Development Guidelines.

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Mr Garrett said these national guidelines will consider a broader range of issues, and was a key recommendation coming out of the Environment Protection and Heritage Council's meeting last November.

"These guidelines will improve consistency and transparency in the wind farm planning and approval processes, and assist communities, developers and governments in promoting best practice, especially best practice in community consultation - a vital aspect of any new development."

Mr Garrett said that the guidelines will be available for public comment later this year and are expected to be considered by the Council in early 2010.

The EPBC Act Policy Statement 2.3 - Wind Farm Industry is available the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Community Information Unit on 1800 803 772.