Council Updates Position Statement

Published on 26 March 2026

Yarriambiack Shire Council Updates Position on Mining, Renewable Energy and Transmission Lines

Yarriambiack Shire Council has reaffirmed and clarified its position on mining, renewable energy and transmission infrastructure, following unanimous endorsement of its revised Position Statement by Councillors on 25 March 2026.

The Position Statement has now been revised to include a specific section addressing the installation of power infrastructure within road reserves and on Council‑owned land.

Council has been advised that private connection lines installed on public land must be assessed against Section 46 of the Electrical Safety Act 1998 (Vic). This legislation restricts private electrical installations on public land unless the works are undertaken on behalf of specific entities, including those that are licensed or exempt under the Electricity Industry Act 2000.

Mayor Andrew McLean said the updated Position Statement provides important clarity for proponents and the community alike.

“Council recognises the growing role renewable energy plays in the Victorian Governments future plans, but we also have a responsibility to ensure proposals are lawful, properly assessed and do not negatively impact our communities,” Mayor McLean said.

“This updated position gives clear guidance on what Council can and cannot support, while ensuring road reserves and public land are managed in a way that protects access, safety and local amenity.”

Where a company holds a licence under the Electricity Industry Act 2000, Council may consider requests for the installation of power infrastructure. In these circumstances, consent should not be unreasonably withheld, and Council is required to provide clear reasons should consent be refused.

Mayor McLean said Council’s current approach reflects the practical realities facing rural councils.

“Renewable energy and transmission is a rapidly evolving and complex space. Council simply does not have the resources to assess proposals that sit outside a clear regulatory framework,” he said.

“By setting clear expectations, we are being transparent with industry while ensuring Council resources are used responsibly and in the best interests of our residents.”

As a result, Council has adopted the following position, now included in the revised Position Statement:

Council cannot allow power infrastructure to be installed in road reserves or on Council‑owned land unless the applicant holds a licence under the Electricity Industry Act 2000 to connect renewable energy systems to the grid. Requests from licensed transmitters will only be considered following the provision of comprehensive legal advice—at the applicant’s expense—along with community consultation, and provided there is no negative impact on residents’ daily lives or on landowners’ access to their land and infrastructure.

Council’s revised Position Statement provides greater certainty for industry, landowners and the wider community, while ensuring Council meets its legislative obligations and protects local amenity and access.

For further information, the Position Statement is available on Council’s website.

END OF RELEASE

Mayor Andrew McLean

Yarriambiack Shire Council