SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council, in partnership with Wellington Shire Council, has successfully secured $4.7 million in funding through the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.
The funding will enable both councils to strategically plan for potential renewable energy projects, including offshore wind. Importantly, it will support planning for anticipated workforce and population growth, helping to identify where people may live and what services and infrastructure will be needed to support local communities.
The announcement of a significant dividend for South Gippsland and Wellington comes at the same time as the release of the final 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan (VTP) last Sunday, which sets out where the Renewable Energy Zones will be located across the state, including in Gippsland.
Key projects to be delivered as part of the grant funding in South Gippsland include:
- Residential and industrial growth planning, including identifying future road and stormwater infrastructure needs.
- A public infrastructure review in the Corner Inlet area, that will consider the future use of land for public services and facilities.
- A review of the industrial zoned land near the Barry Beach Marine Terminal and Port Anthony to ensure it has the capacity to support long-term offshore wind operation and maintenance.
These projects were selected based on the capacity and availability of appropriately zoned land within one hour of the ports at Barry Beach.
Similar planning and infrastructure assessments will be undertaken in Wellington Shire, with the funding to be shared between the two municipalities.
This investment reflects Council’s strong advocacy in representing the needs of our community. It also represents a vital step in preparing South Gippsland for the opportunities and challenges that come with renewable energy development and the broader regional growth it is expected to drive.
Mayor South Gippsland Shire Council, Cr John Schelling, stressed the impact of the renewable energy rollout on local communities needed to be considered.
“While many details are still to be confirmed, the Australian Government’s announcement of Gippsland as an offshore wind zone will inevitably bring change to our region. It’s important that we plan proactively — to help guide activity to the most suitable areas and to ensure the needs of our residents are considered,” said Mayor Schelling.
“Securing a large grant such as this wouldn’t have been possible without dedicated advocacy and a partnership approach and on behalf of Council. I would like to extend our thanks to Wellington Shire Council, the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, One Gippsland, neighbouring councils, and local education providers.
“I’d also like to thank the Australian Government for their support and for recognising the vital role local government plays in supporting our communities through this transition.”
