In times of adversity, it is crucial to stand firm in our convictions and fight for what we believe in. Today, we are faced with a critical moment in our battle to protect Regional Victoria from the detrimental impacts of the Western Renewables Link (WRL) and VNI West high voltage transmission towers and lines. Despite the recent dismissal of our case against the Victorian Government’s Ministerial Orders by the Supreme Court, the RVPA refuses to back down. We are taking decisive action by appealing this judgment vigorously.

What’s Happening?

In September 2023, the Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance Inc. (MCHPA), which has been trading as the Regional Victoria Power Alliance (RVPA) since May 2023, initiated a legal challenge against the February and May 2023 “VNI West and WRL” Ministerial Orders in the Supreme Court. Spearheaded by the Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio, with considerable direction from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), these “Henry VIII” Orders aimed to fast-track the construction of 600km of high-capacity 500kV double-circuit overhead transmission towers and lines plus terminal stations.

Despite our relentless efforts and exceptional work by our legal team, a single Judge rejected our claims in December 2023. However, our legal counsel has identified compelling grounds for appeal, and we submitted our application to the Court of Appeal on February 16, 2024. This appeal represents our crucial stand against the Government’s self-appointed decree for these detrimental projects to proceed.

Why This Appeal Matters

The proposed route for these transmission projects runs through Victoria’s most high-risk bushfire areas as well as prime agricultural land placing an unacceptable increased risk on these communities. These projects will have significant and detrimental generational impacts on the environment due to the extensive removal of native vegetation and the destruction of more than 475,000 mature native trees, this will cause serious loss of biomass and wildlife. There will be devastating impacts on Victorian farmers, their families, livelihoods, and local businesses because of significant farming productivity loss.

By appealing the judgment, we are fighting to protect invaluable agricultural land, homes, and livelihoods from irreversible damage. It’s not just a battle for today but for the future of Regional Victoria and the generations to come.

Background: The Strength of RVPA

The RVPA represents a united front of community members, including determined landholders and resilient business owners along the project corridors. Our alliance stands firm against the combined threats posed by the VNI West and WRL projects, forming an imposing 500kV transmission spine stretching across Victoria and into New South Wales.

Despite the formidable obstacles thrown by the Victorian Government and AEMO, our resolve remains unshakable in safeguarding our communities and environment.

Community Unity: Standing Strong Together

The community is rallied together, unwavering in its commitment to fight for its rights. Together, we wield the power to effect change and ensure a sustainable future for Regional Victoria.

In the face of adversity, let us stand united, resolute in our determination to protect our land, homes, and livelihoods. Together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.

Donate

Justice does not come cheap, we are sincerely grateful for all those who have generously donated to get us to this point, we can’t give up now, and need your continuing support to get us over the line. Please consider a $1,000 donation, or whatever you feel appropriate, all donations will be crucial to us succeeding at appeal. Thank you.

> Donate here.

> Download media release here.