Pre Application

The Minister for Planning is responsible for assessing all proposals that are greater than 30 MW. A planning permit is required to use and develop land for a wind energy facility. Colac Otway Shire was consulted during the early and detailed planning of the proposal. Planning and responsible authorities will be required to take into account the Policy and Planning Guidelines for Development of Wind Energy Facilities in Victoria, 2002,in their decision making.

The Minister for Planning is also responsible for administering the Environment Effects Act (1978) and for deciding whether an Environment Effects Statement (EES) is required under this Act. There are a number of criteria for determining whether an EES is required.

With letter from 7th of October the Minister for Planning, Mary Delahunty has determined that for the proposed windfarm Mount Gellibrand an Environment Effects Statement is not required under the Environment Effects Act (1978).The planning permit process in accordance with the Policy and Planning Guidelines for Development of Wind Energy Facilities in Victoria will provide an adequate basis for assessing these impacts.