Wellington Shire Council's vision is for happy people, healthy environment and thriving communities.
After Hours Emergency
1300 366 244The significant funding win is the result of strong partnerships between Wellington Shire Council, South Gippsland Shire Council, and the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, with support from the Victorian Government. The plan will open up land for development in the south of Wellington Shire, identify critical infrastructure, and ensure the region is ready to welcome large-scale workforce and industry investment linked to offshore wind.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Councillor Scott Rossetti said the announcement is a defining moment for Wellington and the wider Gippsland region.
“This is about preparing our towns, services, and infrastructure to thrive alongside renewable energy. Offshore wind brings enormous opportunities for jobs, business growth, and investment and thanks to this funding, we can now plan with confidence,” Mayor Rossetti said.
“This win is also the product of tireless advocacy over many years. From working closely with our neighbouring councils, First Nations leaders, and education providers, to bold moments like Deputy Mayor Cindy Madeley asking the Prime Minister directly on ABC’s Q&A – on live television, exactly what support his government would deliver for our region. That conversation prompted a personal call from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese the very next day and today, we see the result of this long running advocacy.
It also reflects the ongoing efforts of all Councillors, who have consistently raised our community’s case with State and Federal Energy and Climate Ministers – including Lily D’Ambrosio and Chris Bowen, ensuring Wellington’s voice is heard at every level of government.”
The project will help meet national and state renewable energy targets by ensuring Gippsland is ‘infrastructure ready’ for up to 9 GW of offshore wind generation already in feasibility stages-by 2040.
Mayor Rossetti said the funding is even more significant given the financial pressures facing regional councils.
“Every grant dollar we secure is a big win for our residents especially in a Shire of more than 10,900 square kilometres, where fewer ratepayers support a much larger area. This investment means we can deliver infrastructure planning at a scale we could never fund alone,” he said.
“We are grateful to the Federal Government for recognising Gippsland’s role in Australia’s clean energy future. With a whole-of-government approach and strong local partnerships, this plan will set the blueprint for how our communities grow, attract investment, and lead the way in renewable energy.”