By Michaela Meade
AusNet have responded to claims that they are entering residential land without consent.
Moorabool council expressed concerns early last week over reports the company was entering residents’ land without voluntary consent for surveys of land connected to the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP).
The WVTNP’s proposed 190-kilometre transmission line would stretch from Bulgana near Stawell through Moorabool and Melton to Sydenham, requiring land surveys across the areas.
According to section 93 of the Electricity Industry Act 2000, AusNet is able to enter property without prior consent.
AusNet notified Moorabool council of its intention to begin surveys of residential land from Monday, October 18. AusNet said there have been rescheduled surveys since.
WVTNP executive director Stephanie McGregor said AusNet were working together with landowners.
“In the past two months we’ve worked closely with more than 108 landholders who have provided consent to conduct surveys on their land,” Ms McGregor said.
“The studies look for potential habitats for threatened species and areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage.
“Our preference is always to work with landholders to reach voluntary consent and agree protocols to help make sure our visits have the least amount of impact on their activities.
“The community will have an opportunity to review the studies and provide further feedback through the Environment Effects Statement process as the project develops.”
AusNet said landowners are given at least one week’s notice of visits in certified mail, along with multiple emails, letters and phone calls over more than a month prior, to obtain voluntary consent.
A team of experts attends visits together, to avoid having to visit properties on multiple occasions than necessary, the company said.
Moorabool council said: “There is significant work required for the project to gain the social licence required to be a success, including a detailed and genuine investigation into underground options.”
