Environmental health expert Anthony Capon will chair the group, which also includes Monash University's head of health science Helen Keleher, and the ACT's chief health officer Charles Guest.

Health Minister Katy Gallagher said the steering committee had a broad mandate to examine all the health issues involved in the proposal and compile a health report by mid-August.

''That's what the community has been asking for, and I think these experts ... will be able to manage what is quite a sensitive community issue and will bring their expertise and experience to the table.

''These jobs aren't easy but they have been prepared to take the challenge on and provide that information to government.''

Professor Capon is a visiting fellow at the Australian National University's epidemiology and population health centre.

Professor Keleher specialises in mental health and health promotion.

Ms Lambert, the former head of Women's and Children's Hospitals Australasia, is well-known for campaigning for organ donation and free home oxygen tanks.

Ms Lambert said she would ensure the community's views were heard and understood.

''I think on things like this it's terribly important to have a health impact assessment or a steering group such as this one to oversee it, people who know about public health and will consult the community.

''The real linchpin is the community itself to stand up and make sure it is heard.''

Residents have called for a full environmental impact assessment on the planned $1billion gas-fired power station near the Mugga Lane tip, saying it is too close to homes in Macarthur and Tuggeranong.