Benefits

Our commitment to western Victoria

Regional communities play an essential role hosting the infrastructure that powers clean energy and it’s vital they share in the benefits the WRL project will create.

We will continue working side by side with local communities in western Victoria to shape community benefits that reflect the region’s key social, economic and environmental priorities. Our focus is on supporting local economies and industry, enabling communities to share in project benefits, advancing renewable energy initiatives and improving energy security. This work supports skills development, strengthens local partnerships and builds long‑term energy resilience through community‑led solutions.

Economic benefits

The Western Renewables Link will bring significant economic investment to western Victoria.

We’re working closely with local communities, Traditional Owners and regional leaders to understand local needs, reduce impacts and build strong, mutually beneficial relationships, resulting in an industry-leading social licence framework.

It is estimated that construction of the Western Renewables Link will generate up to 700 full-time jobs, with more than 1,000 indirect jobs expected through supporting industries. Over the next 15 years, investment in transmission infrastructure in western Victoria is projected to help create up to 6,500 new jobs in the Western Victoria Renewable Energy Zone.

We are currently seeking expressions of interest from local businesses, social enterprises and institutional providers for supplies and services. For more information, visit our Businesses and suppliers page.

Benefit Sharing Program

The WRL Benefit Sharing Program recognises that communities hosting infrastructure are central to enabling a clean energy future for all. It is designed to deliver sustainable outcomes and lasting benefits for regions along the proposed route – creating meaningful impact by addressing local priorities such as limited digital access, improved health services, affordable and reliable energy, and greater access to jobs and training.

In response to community feedback, the program has been expanded to provide $15 million of funding during the development phase. If the project proceeds, further funding will be unlocked and include a $25 million co-designed Community Benefit Fund, making sure that future initiatives are shaped by what communities identify as most meaningful for them.

Find out more on the WRL Benefit Sharing Program webpage.

Improving energy security

The Western Renewables Link will help Victoria transition away from coal by connecting renewable energy generated in western Victoria to the grid. Once operating it will power up to one million homes across the State and ease congestion on the existing transmission network.

The proposed 500kV transmission line will be capable of carrying more than 3,000 MW and will unlock renewable energy in the Western Victoria Renewable Energy Zone. It will also create a direct connection between the New South Wales and Victorian electricity grids.

Renewable energy benefits

We are proud to be helping the Victorian government achieve its ambitious renewable energy agenda and create a lasting, positive legacy for Victorians that brings clean, affordable and reliable energy to Victorian homes and businesses.

Supporting the transition to renewable energy will reduce CO2 emissions and deliver significant environmental benefits, including cleaner air and waterways and better protection for biodiversity.

For more information, visit AusNet’s Environment and climate page.