Victorian Farmers Federation Opposes Land Acquisition Push

The Victorian Farmers Federation has strongly criticised AusNet’s application for compulsory land acquisition powers linked to the Western Renewables Link transmission project.

The VFF says the move could allow compulsory acquisition before the project has completed environmental and planning assessments, increasing pressure on regional landholders.

Acting President Peter Star says the Victorian Government should reject the application outright, arguing affected communities are still participating in the assessment process in good faith.

The federation says granting acquisition powers before approvals are finalised risks creating a dangerous precedent for future infrastructure developments across Victoria.

AusNet has maintained voluntary agreements remain its preferred approach, however the VFF says negotiations cannot be considered voluntary once compulsory acquisition powers are introduced.

Mr Star says many regional communities already feel frustrated by the handling of major infrastructure developments, warning the proposal could further damage trust between landholders and government.