Victoria is making progress in establishing Australia's first offshore wind industry, a key component in meeting the state's renewable energy targets. These targets include generating at least 2 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy by 2032, 4 GW by 2035 and 9 GW by 2040.
The Offshore Wind Implementation Statement 3, released by the Minister for Energy and Resources, provides a roadmap for the next phase of offshore wind development in Victoria. The statement sets out the parameters for a proposed support package for Victoria's first wave of offshore wind projects, and establishes a competitive auction process to be held in 2025, with contracts to be awarded in 2026.
The statement also updates VicGrid's approach to transmission co-ordination, incorporating input from landholders, communities and stakeholders. Preferred transmission project options will be announced in 2024.
The document highlights employment opportunities throughout the development stages of offshore wind farms, providing jobs for Victorians in trades, engineering, administration and various other roles.
Victoria has the potential to support the establishment of the offshore wind industry at several ports, including the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings. At the same time, a fit-for-purpose regulatory framework is being developed to protect the environment as the industry grows.
To support local industry development and job creation, the Government will establish the Renewable Energy Jobs Taskforce. This taskforce, made up of representatives from unions, industry associations, businesses and the community, will coordinate industry engagement on offshore wind projects.
Recognising the impact on First Peoples, the statement reaffirms the government's commitment to meaningful steps towards self-determination. This includes supporting the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation's efforts to reach mutually beneficial agreements with offshore wind developers in the Gippsland region.
For more information on the Implementation Statement, visit energy.vic.gov.au/renewable-energy/offshore-wind-energy/for-industry-and-developers.