Victorian Minister for Planning, Sonya Kilkenny, has completed her assessment on the Marinus Link project, concluding that the environmental effects of the project can be acceptably managed.
Marinus Link Pty Ltd (MLPL) welcomed the assessment and said it marks a major environmental milestone for the project, which will proceed in accordance with several environmental performance requirements recommended by an independent Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC).
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 IAC.
“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 Tetra Tech Coffey,” he said.
“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 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC).
“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,” Mr Carter said.
As the project progresses, MLPL said it will continue to engage with key stakeholders, including landholders, to implement the environmental performance requirements.
