Western Renewables Link Project Inquiry and Advisory Committee

Overview

The Minister for Planning will appoint a joint Inquiry and Advisory Committee (the Committee) to advise on the environmental effects of the proposed Western Renewables Link Project.

The Western Renewables Link Project (the Project) is a proposed high voltage double circuit overhead electricity transmission line from Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west. The Project will connect the renewable energy developments in western Victoria to the grid and provide a direct connection between the New South Wales and Victorian electricity grids. The proposed Project will be able to carry more than 3,000 MW.

The Project comprises the construction and operation of a new 190-kilometre overhead 500kV transmission line from a new 500kV terminal station near the existing Bulgana Terminal Station to the Sydenham Terminal Station. The Project also includes upgrades to other existing terminal stations.

AusNet Transmission Group Pty Ltd (AusNet Services) is the Proponent.

The Committee will:

• review the Environment Effects Statement (EES), draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) GC209 to the Northern Grampians, Pyrenees, Ballarat, Hepburn, Moorabool and Melton Planning Schemes, and public submissions
• hold a public Hearing to hear from the Proponent and submitters who want to speak to their written submission
• provide advice to the Minister about the environmental effects of the project.

Inquiry and advisory committee members

The appointment of the Committee members is in progress. The names of the Committee members will be published here following their appointment.

Documents

You may view and download the exhibited EES and draft PSA documents and any relevant documents at Proponent’s webpage.

Make a submission

Submissions to the Committee can be made at Engage Victoria.

Make a submission

Need help putting together a submission?

Read our guide about submissions. The Guide to Presenting at an EES Hearing at Planning Panels Victoria also provides general information about EES Hearings and what to expect.

Legal Assistance Service

The Legal Assistance Service is a new 12-month pilot program for PPV hearings, offering no-cost or low-cost legal assistance to eligible submitters. The options for legal assistance can range from preliminary advice, review of documents and assistance with preparing submissions, and representation at a hearing. The scope of assistance and fee arrangements will be discussed directly with the barristers who will be engaged by direct brief.  Foley’s List is facilitating the pilot program.

The Legal Assistance Service aims to assist eligible participants in PPV processes. Foley’s List will discuss next steps directly with those who submit an enquiry form. Further information can be found on our Legal Assistance Service webpage.

More information

To find out more about the Western Renewables Link Project, the EES and draft PSA contact:

Western Renewables Link
Phone: 1800 WRL WRL (975 975)
Email: info@westernrenewableslink.com.au
Website: https://www.westernrenewableslink.com.au/

For more information about the Minister's Assessment and EES process contact:

Impact Assessment Unit
Department of Transport and Planning
Email: environment.assessment@transport.vic.gov.au

Accessibility and assistance

Deaf, hearing or speech impaired? Please contact the National Relay Service on 133 677 or www.relayservice.gov.au

Page last updated: 30/06/25