The regulations under the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act 2021 (OEI Act) have been amended and are now in force, based partly on community consultation in April and May 2024.
The regulations set up a framework for offshore electricity projects to proceed in Australian Commonwealth waters. The 2024 amendments include requirements for:
- Management plans
- A design notification scheme
- Financial security
- Safety and protection zones
- Work health and safety
- Record keeping
- Fees
The changes are expected to help support licence holders as they progress offshore wind projects now and into the future.
The community consultation that closed in May 2024 received more than 100 submissions.
The feedback led to changes on:
- The management plan application process
- Timeframes for assessments
- Consultation requirements
The new rules set transparent and robust processes for industry to carry out projects safely and sustainably.
Licence holders can now apply for their management plans to be approved, in conjunction with undertaking detailed environmental assessments. This will allow feasibility work to begin in areas where licences are granted.
