MEDIA RELEASE. 26 August 2026
Friends of the Earth welcomes today's much anticipated announcement that the Ben Carroll government will kick off the first offshore wind auction in the country, saying it marks the beginning of a new industry that will transform the state's energy system.
"This is the critical next step for offshore wind to make this new industry a reality in Victoria and deliver on the promise of regional jobs and climate action" said Pat Simons, Friends of the Earth's renewable energy spokesperson.
The auctions will provide the certainty needed for projects to ultimately proceed to final investment decision, construction and operation.
"As Victoria's ageing coal fired power stations close, offshore wind will create thousands of new jobs in Gippsland, power as many as 1.2 million homes with clean energy and deliver deep emissions cuts in the electricity sector" said Simons.
Yes2Renewables Gippsland Organiser Wendy Farmer says the auction announcement will be warmly welcomed in Gippsland, where there is a deep well of support for a jobs-rich offshore wind industry.
"Today's offshore wind announcement shows that Gippslanders will once again be at the forefront of building Victoria's energy system. This marks a huge opportunity for young people to build a career in offshore wind in everything from construction, maintenance and engineering roles,
Friends of the Earth has been surveying Gippslanders on their views of offshore wind and says there is wide support for the local job creation and community benefits from the industry.
As Victoria heads to a state election in November, the state's energy future is on the line with the Opposition pledging to axe the VNI West transmission line if elected, effectively killing off a large amount of new renewable energy projects.
The Liberal National party has provided in principle support for offshore wind, but has yet to reveal any policies that will provide the investment certainty needed to build projects in reality.
"Without any policies to drive renewable energy investment, the Victorian Coalition risks exposing Victorians to supply shocks and price increases as coal power stations close. It's time for a course correction," said Simons.
"Will the opposition show leadership by supporting Victoria's offshore wind auctions? This would be a practical way to secure new power supply for the state."
