The Victorian Minister for Planning, Sonya Kilkenny, has issued her assessment of the environmental effects of the Marinus Link project.
The Minister’s assessment concludes that the project can proceed with acceptable environmental effects, provided recommended refinements to environmental management are adopted.
Marinus Link Pty Ltd (MLPL) welcomed the Victorian Minister for Planning’s positive assessment of the project under the Environment Effects Act 1978, which it said marks a significant milestone in the project’s environmental approvals pathway.
MLPL Project Director, Mike Carter, said the outcome reflects a rigorous and transparent regulatory process and a dedicated team committed to delivering infrastructure in a way that respects the environment.
“The process included public exhibition, formal hearings, and a detailed review by an independent Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC),” Mr Carter said.
“This is a major step forward for the project and a testament to the dedication of our Environment and Sustainability team and our expert advisors at TetraTech Coffey.
“Their technical rigour, collaboration with stakeholders, and commitment to strong environmental outcomes have enabled us to clear a critical hurdle.”
The Minister’s assessment will inform Victorian statutory decision-makers responsible for approvals under legislation, including the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and the Marine and Coastal Act 2018. It also unlocks the next phase of Commonwealth environmental approvals under the EPBC Act.
“We want to thank the Minister for acknowledging the years of planning and design refinement that have gone into the proposed route, which largely avoids native vegetation on land and rocky outcrops and reefs in the marine environment.
As the project progresses, MLPL will continue to engage with key stakeholders, including landholders, to implement the Environmental Performance Requirements.
The Minister’s full assessment is available on the Department of Transport and Planning’s website: www.planning.vic.gov.au/environmental-assessments/browse-projects/marinus-link
