New data just released by 89 Degrees East, commissioned by Renew Australia for All and conducted across key regional Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, reveals a striking gap between actual support for the energy transition and perceptions of community sentiment.
According to the polling, 62 per cent of regional Australians say they support Australia’s shift to renewable energy. But only 37 per cent believe their neighbours share that view (a perception gap of 25 points).
In fact, opposition to renewables across these REZ regions is just 17 per cent overall – and in some regions as low as 12 per cent – far lower than the resistance often amplified in media and public discourse.
The findings challenge a common narrative in parts of regional Australia: that renewables are broadly resisted, or that local communities are unready for the shift.
Instead, this research underscores that majority support for renewables exists everywhere, even if many think they’re in the minority.
Why the gap matters
This perception-gap is not trivial. By under-estimating the level of collective support, regional community members can feel isolated, become entrenched in doubt or opposition, or be persuaded by the loud voices of some sceptics.
The research warns that vested interests are exploiting this. As one senior researcher observes: When the silent majority believe they are alone, they become easier to lobby or persuade, even if most are in favour.
Support is strong, when done right
The study notes that in these REZ areas, where meaningful consultation and community-benefit sharing have been undertaken, public backing is robust. The message is clear: renewables done right, with genuine regional engagement and transparent benefit-sharing, have the support of regional Australia.
The broader takeaway
For policymakers, project-developers, local councils and community groups, the research signals two imperatives.
The first imperative is time to correct the narrative in regional areas. This means mainstreaming support and making it visible.
Secondly, every project must invest in early, meaningful consultations, transparent benefit-sharing mechanisms, and genuine local-community pathways – because when renewables are done right, the data shows regional Australians want in.