This is a milestone moment for the state’s clean‑energy transition and a clear signal that Victoria is serious about delivering the renewable‑energy future communities have been calling for.
Offshore wind is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to replace ageing coal with clean, reliable power while creating thousands of good regional jobs. Victoria’s commitment to an initial 2 GW auction, supported by the emerging Electricity Services Entry Mechanism, provides the certainty industry needs to invest and the certainty communities need to plan for a fair and prosperous transition.
“Gippsland has powered Victoria for decades, and it’s fitting that the region will lead the country into the offshore wind era. With world‑class wind resources and a skilled workforce, Gippsland is uniquely positioned to become the heart of Australia’s renewable energy economy.
"The projected 6,000 jobs and billions in investment is a massive opportunity for the region, and a meaningful pathway for workers and families to remain at the centre of Victoria’s energy story” said Wendy Farmer, Yes2Renewables organiser for Friends of the Earth.
"Record renewable‑energy investment is already cutting wholesale electricity prices and has been critical to keeping the lights on over summer. Building offshore wind will further stabilise the grid, strengthen energy security as coal retires, and will be critical for Victoria’s efforts to cut carbon emissions".
In 2025 Friends of the Earth organised a delegation of workers and regional leaders to visit MPs in Canberra and is proud to have contributed to building political will for offshore wind.
As the auction design is finalised, Friends of the Earth urges government and industry to continue working closely with First Nations, communities, and local businesses to ensure the benefits of offshore wind are shared fairly and transparently. Strong community engagement and clear, science‑based information will be essential to building confidence and ensuring Gippsland’s leadership is recognised and respected.
"Victoria has set the pace for Australia’s offshore wind industry. Today’s announcement is another step toward a cleaner, more resilient and more affordable energy future that delivers for communities and climate".
MEDIA COMMENT: Wendy Farmer
0408 261 551
