AusNet is committed to delivering valuable, lasting benefits to the local communities at the heart of the energy transition.
Community partnerships and investment
The Community Partnerships and Investment stream of the WRL Benefit Sharing Program will deliver $30 million in funding to support initiatives that reflect local priorities and create lasting benefits for communities along the alignment. Guided by the strategic pillars of the WRL Benefit Sharing Program and underpinned by local research and engagement, this investment is designed to strengthen community resilience.
In response to community feedback, $15 million of this funding has been brought forward to support initiatives during the development phase. This
early investment reflects the project’s commitment to sharing value with communities so they can experience tangible benefits well ahead of construction. Importantly, this funding will be delivered regardless of whether the project proceeds. The remaining $15 million will be available if the
project proceeds.
See below for how early investment is helping unlock local potential and create enduring benefits across western Victoria.
A community playground, built for families
In Waubra, a grassroots vision is coming to life with the creation of a vibrant new playground, driven by the local community and backed by a $200,000 grant from WRL. Located near The Springs Hotel, the upgraded space will feature climbing structures, swings, slides, BBQ facilities, and picnic areas, offering a welcoming stop for families and travellers alike. With strong support from local schools, sporting clubs, and community fundraising efforts, the project is a shining example of how local ideas, powered by practical partnerships, can deliver lasting benefits for regional communities.
Improving mobile connectivity in western Victoria
To address long-standing mobile blackspots in western Victoria, the Western Renewables Link project is investing over $3 million to build new communication towers in Lexton, Smeaton and Coimadai. These upgrades will deliver improved 4G and 5G coverage, supporting local residents businesses and emergency services. The initiative responds directly to community feedback and aims to enhance safety, connectivity and quality of life across the region. Additional tower locations are being explored in partnership with Telstra, pending project approval.
Affordable Community Energy
We are supporting a range of energy initiatives across western Victoria to help local organisations advance their renewable energy goals and reduce operating costs.
Ballarat West Employment Zone
In partnership with the Ballarat Energy Network, we delivered energy assessments to help local organisations identify opportunities for cleaner, more efficient energy use.
Ballarat Community Health
We assessed energy use across seven Ballarat Community Health sites and are now installing rooftop solar and batteries at five of them. These upgrades are expected to save around $180,000 over 15 years, freeing up funds that can be reinvested into patient-facing care across Moorabool, Pyrenees, Ballarat and Ararat communities.
North Ballarat Precinct Structure Plan
We contributed to the planning for Ballarat’s next big suburb by conducting an energy analysis to guide sustainable development to help future-proof infrastructure and make the suburb energy self-reliant.
Pyrenees Shire
We’re delivering solar, battery, and power upgrades at key community sites to improve energy resilience and emergency preparedness. Every dollar saved on energy costs can be reinvested into vital community services, helping local organisations do more of what matters most.
