VNI West is a proposed 500-kilovolt overhead transmission line connecting electricity grids in Victoria and New South Wales. Spanning approximately 240 kilometres, it will cross around 250 private properties, significantly impacting regional communities.
In October 2024, Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) announced its preferred alignment for the project and now landowners can begin evaluating its potential effects on their properties.
Key Steps for Landowners
1. Engage Early: Consult legal experts to strengthen your negotiation position.
2. Gather Evidence: Compile documents to support claims for compensation.
3. Understand Deadlines: Track critical dates to safeguard your rights.
Land Access
At this time, TCV cannot access private property without landowner consent and landowners who grant access may receive a participation fee as outlined in the Guide.
However, TCV has applied for a transmission license from the Essential Services Commission. If
granted in early 2025, this license would give TCV access rights under Section 93 of the Electricity
Industry Act 2000 (Vic) and landowner consent would no longer be required.
Easement Acquisition
TCV plans to acquire easements through negotiated agreements called Option Deeds. Option Deeds specify the easement’s location and terms, including compensation and associated costs. Legal advice is critical to understand the implications for your property, as easements can affect not only the easement area but also the balance of your land.
Compensation
Landowners are entitled to compensation which should reflect:
The value of the easement area.
Diminished value of the remaining land.
Additional impacts like reduced productivity or increased costs.
Independent valuation advice ensures fair compensation.
TCV also agrees to cover reasonable legal and professional costs during negotiations for Option Deeds.
Compulsory Acquisition
If a negotiated agreement cannot be reached, TCV may initiate compulsory acquisition under the
Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 (Vic) (LAC Act). This process can only occur after TCV secures a transmission license.
Features of Compulsory Acquisition
1. No Prior Agreement Needed: TCV can determine easement parameters and record on the
title without the landowners agreement or consent.
2. No Option Fee Payable: Landowners do not receive the Option Fee available under negotiated agreements.
3. Compensation: Landowners are still entitled to compensation for:
Market Value: The value of the easement area.
Property Value Reduction: Diminished value of the remaining land.
Disturbance Costs: Losses from disrupted farming or relocation.
Professional Fees: Legal and valuation expenses.
Other Financial Losses: Additional impacts caused by the acquisition.
Disputes Over Compensation
Disagreements over compensation can be resol
