FAQs

In selecting the proposed route, feedback and concerns from landholders, the community and other stakeholders have helped shape the project’s design and planning. The route selection criteria are designed to avoid environmental, social and cultural impacts where possible, and where impacts cannot be avoided, to minimise them as far as practicable.

As part of the EES process, the independent Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC) considered the exhibited EES and draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA), submissions, expert evidence, and the views of Traditional Owners and Registered Aboriginal Parties before making recommendations to the Minister for Planning.

The Minister has now determined that the project’s environmental effects can be acceptably managed with regard to overall project outcomes. This includes consideration of the route and the measures required to manage impacts.

While the assessment found that impacts in the Darley area are acceptable, it recommends further work to investigate possible opportunities to further minimise environmental risks in the area.

Following publication of the assessment, the project’s Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) was gazetted on 30 September 2026. The approval of the PSA is a significant step in the approvals process for the project and establishes the planning controls for construction and operation of the project. Further State and Commonwealth approvals and consents are still required before construction can begin.