General News
2 April, 2026
Council clarifies stance
Yarriambiack Shire Council has received multiple inquiries from renewable energy companies about placing transmission infrastructure within road reserves.
With an increasing number of mining, renewable and transmission projects being planned for Victoria, increased workload is being placed on local government.
Councils must define their position to the community while complying with legislation.
Accordingly, the council obtained legal advice before updating its Position Statement on Mining, Renewable Energy, and Transmission Lines.
The revised Position Statement now includes a section on installing power infrastructure within road reserves and on council-owned land.
The revised statement was passed unanimously at the March 25 meeting.
The minutes of the March meeting state that the council has been advised that private connection lines installed on public land must be assessed under Section 46 of the Electrical Safety Act 1998 (Vic).
This legislation restricts private electrical installations on public land unless the works are undertaken on behalf of specific entities, including those that are licensed or exempt under the Electricity Industry Act 2000.
Mayor Andrew McLean said the updated Position Statement provided important clarity for proponents and the community alike.
“Council recognises the growing role renewable energy plays in the Victorian Government's future plans, but we also have a responsibility to ensure proposals are lawful, properly assessed and do not negatively impact our communities,” he said.
“This updated position gives clear guidance on what council can and cannot support, while ensuring road reserves and public land are managed in a way that protects access, safety and local amenity.”
Where a company holds a licence under the Electricity Industry Act 2000, the council may consider requests for the installation of power infrastructure.
In these circumstances, consent should not be unreasonably withheld, and Council is required to provide clear reasons should consent be refused.
Cr McLean noted that the council’s current approach reflects the practical realities faced by rural councils.
“Renewable energy and transmission is a rapidly evolving and complex space,” he said.
"Council simply does not have the resources to assess proposals that sit outside a clear regulatory framework.
“By setting clear expectations, we are being transparent with industry while ensuring council resources are used responsibly and in the best interests of our residents.”
As a result, the council has adopted the following position, now included in the revised Position Statement:
Council cannot allow power infrastructure to be installed in road reserves or on council-owned land unless the applicant holds a licence under the Electricity Industry Act 2000 to connect renewable energy systems to the grid.
Requests from licensed transmitters will be considered only after comprehensive legal advice is provided at the applicant’s expense, community consultation is completed, and there is no negative impact on residents’ daily lives or landowners’ access to their land and infrastructure.
The revised Position Statement provides greater certainty for industry, landowners, and the wider community, while ensuring the council meets legislative obligations and protects local amenity and access.
The recommendations before the council were that it adopt the revised Position Statement on Mining, Renewable Energy and Transmission Lines as of March 25 2026; and rescind prior versions of the Position Statement on Mining, Renewable Energy and Transmission Lines.
The motion that the recommendation be adopted was moved by Cr Heintze and seconded Cr Zanker. The motion was carried unanimously.