On 1 November, Victoria’s electricity transmission network planning responsibilities will transition from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), through its AEMO Victorian Planning (AVP) division, to VicGrid.
The change follows the passing of the National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Act 2025, which transfers planning responsibilities from AVP to VicGrid under the Victorian Government’s Victorian Transmission Investment Framework (VTIF).
As part of the transition, VicGrid will assume responsibility for Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) and major Victorian electricity transmission network projects, including the Victorian section of the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West (VNI West) project.
AEMO CEO Daniel Westerman said AEMO fully supports the transfer of planning responsibilities and has worked collaboratively with the Victorian Government, VicGrid and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth handover.
“AEMO thanks the various teams that have delivered these functions over many years, including those that have worked closely with the Victorian Government and VicGrid to ensure a smooth transition that provides continuity for communities, stakeholders and project teams,” Mr Westerman said.
“The establishment of VicGrid achieves a major milestone in the VTIF. AEMO supports the transfer of functions to VicGrid as appropriate for the VTIF to deliver Victoria’s long-term energy goals and brings AEMO’s role in Victoria into better alignment with other NEM regions,” he said.
TCV, established by AVP to lead the development of VNI West in Victoria, will continue progressing early works, environmental and planning approvals, and engagement with landholders, Traditional Owners, councils and local communities to ensure continuity throughout the transition.
With this change, AEMO will no longer hold unique state-based transmission planning responsibilities within the National Electricity Market (NEM), bringing Victoria’s arrangements into alignment with other NEM regions.
ENDS