The Australian Government has granted a feasibility licence for a proposed offshore wind farm in the Southern Ocean region, off Victoria’s Southwest coast.
Spinifex Offshore, which received a preliminary offer in September 2024, can now assess the feasibility of its proposed wind farm in the Southern Ocean offshore wind zone.
The project is expected to cover 265 square kilometres and generate 1.2 GW of power – enough to meet 10 per cent of Victoria’s electricity needs. Before construction can begin, environmental assessments and other criteria must be met, a process that can take up to seven years in the regulation-happy country.
A newly established Southern Ocean Wind Industry Committee comprising Spinifex, Victorian and local governments, First Nations groups, local industry and workers’ representatives, said it will work together to, "maximise economic and social benefits for Southwest Victoria."
Following the grant of a feasibility licence, the feasibility licence holder must consult various organisations and groups that may be impacted by the development, including First Nations groups.
It must then undertake detailed studies, including environmental studies, to determine the viability of the project, and develop management plans to outline how all stages of the project will be undertaken.