East Gippsland communities are set to benefit from a substantial boost in jobs, investment and regional industry growth following the Federal Government’s decision to grant Major Project Status to the Blue Mackerel Offshore Wind Project and to renew the same status for the Star of the South Offshore Wind Farm.
Both projects sit within the Gippsland offshore wind zone and are now formally recognised as nationally significant under Australia’s renewable energy priorities. The designation provides developers with additional government support to navigate regulatory processes, secure local supply chains and accelerate investment — all of which are expected to flow directly into regional towns.
The Blue Mackerel project, located about 10 kilometres off the coast near Seaspray, proposes up to 69 turbines capable of generating an average of one gigawatt of renewable energy each year. With a capital investment of $6.5 billion, the project is forecast to create around 1,500 construction jobs and 200 ongoing operational roles.
That level of employment is expected to have major benefits for towns including Seaspray, Sale, Bairnsdale, Orbost and Lakes Entrance, where accommodation providers, hospitality venues, trades, transport operators and service industries are poised to share in the economic uplift.
Meanwhile, the Star of the South — Australia’s most advanced offshore wind project — has had its Major Project Status renewed. Once operational, its 2.2 gigawatts of renewable energy is expected to power 1.2 million homes, generating up to 20 per cent of Victoria’s electricity needs. The project is estimated to create around 2000 construction jobs and 300 long-term positions.
Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation, Tim Ayres, said the announcement recognises the projects’ importance to the nation.
“Major Project Status recognises the national significance of the project to Australia’s economy, regional employment and skills,” he said.
“By backing these projects we’re helping our regions to attract industries and investments for a Future Made in Australia, creating good blue-collar and engineering jobs.”
Victorian Senator Raff Ciccone said Gippsland was well-placed to capitalise.
“The projects will deliver reliable renewable energy while creating thousands of regional jobs – a major win for the local economy,” he said. “Major Project Status ensures the Gippsland region can capitalise on stronger local supply chains and the opportunities created through the Albanese Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda.”
