Fears that changes to the state government’s legislation on transmission lines will impact local communities have been met with strong advocacy from Strathbogie Shire Council.
Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy expressed concern following the passing of the National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2) Reform Bill 2025, warning that the reforms represent another blow to regional communities already grappling with drought, emergency services level, unreliable power, and growing inequities.
“Strathbogie Shire has some of the least reliable power in Victoria,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
“We have endured repeated blackouts that cripple our towns, businesses, and farms; yet instead of addressing reliability, these reforms impose new risks and strip landholders of their rights.
“Imagine if you lived on a metropolitan property and companies could force access to your land without your consent, how would you feel?”
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Council said in a statement that it had consistently advocated for equitable treatment and practical, local solutions, including urgent upgrades to the Seymour–Benalla line and investment in microgrid and battery storage projects to strengthen regional resilience.
Farmers across Victoria have voiced alarm at the implications of the reforms, citing:
1. The loss of prime agricultural land to large-scale transmission infrastructure.
2. New laws enabling companies to access private land against owners’ wishes, with fines for resistance.
3. A lack of genuine consultation, with communities often informed only after decisions are made.
4. Compensation packages that fall well short of addressing long-term disruption to farming operations.
“Regional communities support renewable energy, but this strong-arm approach undermines confidence in the transition and erodes trust,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said
“Our communities must not be treated as expendable in the push for state-wide energy targets,” Cr Ewart Kennedy said.
Council is calling on the Victorian Government and VicGrid to:
1. Fix long-standing reliability issues in towns including Euroa, Avenel, Nagambie, and Longwood.
2. Invest in microgrids and storage to safeguard vulnerable communities.
3. Guarantee fair, transparent, and respectful engagement with landholders.
“We want a renewable future that is fair, reliable, and developed in partnership with those most affected," Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
"Strathbogie is ready to play its part, but our residents deserve secure power and a genuine voice in shaping Victoria’s energy transition.”
More information can be found at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au
