The planning permit application for the Bunyip North BESS was lodged with the Department of Transport and Planning on 30 April 2026 (application reference PA2604370). The application is being assessed under the Victorian Government’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP), with the Minister for Planning as the Responsible Authority. Public notice of the application is now underway.

The assessment process is expected to include the following steps:

• referral and consultation with relevant government agencies;
• public notice of the application documents;
• an opportunity for community members and stakeholders to make submissions;
• consideration of submissions by the Department of Transport and Planning;
• and a planning decision by the Minister for Planning, based on relevant legislation, policy and technical evidence.

How can the community have a say?

Feedback from the community forms an important part of the planning approvals process, and submissions expressing support and/or concerns for the Project are encouraged during the public notice period. The application is now on public notice and the Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 21 August 2026. The Department will consider submissions and objections received up until the application is determined.

You can view the complete application and all supporting documents online at the DTP Ministerial Permits Register, or in person by appointment at 1 Spring Street, Melbourne. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make a submission to the Responsible Authority:

• By email: energyandinfrastructure@transport.vic.gov.au
• By post: Minister for Planning, C/- Department of Transport and Planning, GPO Box 2392, Melbourne VIC 3001.

An objection must be made in writing, include the reasons for the objection, and state how the objector would be affected. Submissions are made directly to the Department — they cannot be lodged with RES. A copy of every objection is made available at the Responsible Authority’s office for inspection.

For further detail, download the formal public notice (Form 2), which is being sent to nearby owners and occupiers and published in the Pakenham Gazette.