Wellington Shire Council welcomes announcement on Gippsland offshore wind projects

Wellington Shire Council has welcomed Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen’s announcement that the first feasibility licenses have been awarded to six offshore wind projects, set to initiate Australia’s first declared offshore wind zone off Gippsland’s coast.

Wellington Shire Council has been at the forefront of advocating for renewable energy investment in Gippsland, in order to secure the best long-term outcomes for the Wellington Shire community, businesses, and the broader Gippsland region.

Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cr Ian Bye is excited for Council to work together with license holders - High Sea Wind, Gippsland Skies, Blue Mackerel North, Kut-Wut Brataualung, Ørsted Offshore Australia 1, and Star of the South Wind Farm - to secure investment that will benefit communities in Wellington and right across Gippsland.

Aligned with the findings of the Wellington Renewable Energy Impact and Readiness Study, Wellington Shire Council, alongside South Gippsland Shire Council and key partner, the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), have submitted a joint grant funding application via the Federal Regional Precinct and Partnership Program. This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive land and infrastructure plan to ensure the region is primed for future investments. The funding application aligns with the Federal Government’s priorities and showcases a robust partnership-based approach, enjoying widespread support from regional stakeholders.

“We look forward to the Federal Government’s support to implement the plan to enable investment and allow every resident of Gippsland to thrive both now and in the future,” Cr Bye said.