Have your say on transmission lines

I have been contacted by many residents who are concerned by the impact of planned overhead transmission lines as part of AusNet’s proposed Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone (GREZ).

I recently asked the Minister for Energy and Resources to consider undergrounding of these transmission lines at the beginning of planning, given that a government agency, VicGrid, is only now beginning consultations on transmission options for proposed local renewable energy developments. This is separate but related to AusNet’s proposal.

The Minister has replied to my enquiries and advised that no decisions have been made to-date on whether transmission lines will be overhead or underground and assured me that community feedback will be considered.

With this in mind, I write to encourage local residents to actively engage in community consultation opportunities as they become available. Information on consultation can be viewed at https://engage.vic.gov.au/offshore-wind-transmission-in-gippsland-and-portland. I am aware that a drop-in session has been scheduled to be held at the Woodside Public Hall, Woodside on May 2, 2023, from 10am-2pm.

Those who are supportive of transmission lines being place underground may also wish to sign the petition available at: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/view-sign-e-petitions/details/12/495. 

For more information and to keep up-to-date on community events relating to the GREZ visit grez.com.au.

Danny O’Brien MP, The Nationals Member for Gippsland South