Putting Locals First – A new route for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project

Monday 23 August 2021

Today, the Victorian Liberal Nationals announce our commitment to protect thousands of local jobs and residents across Western Victoria from Daniel Andrews ill-conceived Western Victoria Transmission Network Project.

In its current proposed form, this project will see a new transmission line constructed across 190km of prime agricultural and ecological land from Bulgana to Sydenham.

This project has been developed as a quick fix to Labor’s failing energy network and has been sprung on local residents without genuine community consultation or consideration.

Left unchanged, this would have a devastating impact on the livelihoods and liveability of local communities across Western Victoria.

That’s why the Victorian Liberal Nationals will act by announcing today that an O’Brien Liberal Nationals Government will reroute this transmission project from Bulgana to Sydenham via Mortlake and Lara.

This new route will utilise existing easements and protect communities across the Waubra, Glendonald, Mount Prospect and Long Forest areas, whilst upgrading the capacity of the lines to future proof this infrastructure as more renewable energy generation comes online.

Today’s announcement gives local residents a clear choice. A choice between Labor’s transmission lines through their backyards or the Liberal Nationals plan for a better route that protects locals jobs, residents and communities.

Comments attributable to Leader of the Opposition, Michael O’Brien:

“I’m proud to announce that an O’Brien Liberal Nationals Government will reroute Labor’s quick fix Western Victoria transmission line.

“This Liberal Nationals plan shows what we can achieve when the community voice is heard.

“Our commitment will protect local jobs, local communities and upgrade renewable energy infrastructure for our future.”

Comments attributable to Member for Ripon, Louise Staley:

“The Victorian Liberal Nationals will always listen and put locals first.

“For years Labor has simply ridden roughshod over local communities, threatening jobs, our natural environment and way of life.

“This commitment gives locals a clear choice at the next election – a transmission line through our backyard or a better one built how and where it should be.”