Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal Proposal for Hastings – Have Your Say

The Port of Hastings has been selected by the Victorian Government as the preferred location for a new Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal, intended to support the development of offshore wind farms. While this project represents a major step in Victoria’s transition to renewable energy, it also presents significant environmental considerations for Western Port.

In early 2024, the former Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, rejected the original proposal, determining that it should not proceed. The Port of Hastings has since developed a refined proposal, which has now been released for public comment by the Commonwealth Government.

The public comment period was only open for a short time. Originally set for July 9th, an extension for submission was accepted until Wednesday 16/7/2025

The Western Port Biosphere has already lodged its submission, which you can read here.

We encourage all community members to review the proposal. You can view the project documents via the links below:

🔗 View the full proposal and project documents on the EPBC Public Portal
Visit the EPBC Public Portal

🔗 Read more about this project on the Port of Hastings website
Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal – 2025 EPBC Referral

To assist in navigating the large volume of documentation attached to the Port of Hastings EPBC Act referral, please find this reader’s guide and a virtual tour video to make the material more accessible and easier to navigate.

We believe it is critical that the Commonwealth Government hears from the community about any concerns with this proposal.

The Commonwealth Environment Minister, Murray Watt, will review public comments and expert advice from his Department before deciding whether the project should undergo a formal approvals process, known as an Environmental Effects Statement (EES). This process includes comprehensive environmental assessments to help determine if the Terminal should be allowed to proceed to construction 

The Biosphere Foundation is part of the community reference group for this project and will be undertaking a thorough review of the extensive referral documentation. We will be lodging a formal submission as part of this process.

The Western Port Biosphere Foundation continues to advocate for the development of a Strategic Framework for Western Port, to ensure coordinated, science-based decision-making that protects this internationally significant environment.  This will be a key element of our submission to the Commonwealth Government for the Port of Hastings proposal.

More background about the project, including the Statement of Reasons for Minister Plibersek’s original rejection can be found on here.

Our work to protect and advocate for Western Port relies on community support.
Support our work – donate here.