The Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation has signed an Engagement Agreement with offshore wind proponent Iberdrola Australia, ensuring that Gunaikurnai people are "actively involved" in discussions on the feasibility of the proposed Aurora Green Project.

Under a feasibility licence, Iberdrola Australia (IA) is exploring the potential development of an offshore wind farm in the Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone, within Gunaikurnai traditional waters. The agreement announced Wednesday provides initial resourcing for GLaWAC to advocate for the Gunaikurnai community's rights, values, and aspirations throughout the feasibility stage.

If the project progresses beyond feasibility, GLaWAC will consult with members to determine "the best path forward" and seek to ensure any future development respects Gunaikurnai Country and delivers "meaningful benefits" for members and the broader community.

GLaWAC said that while the project is still in its early stages, the agreement "affirms GLaWAC's role in representing the Gunaikurnai community from the outset", and the Corporation pledged to keep members informed as discussions progress.

"This agreement reflects the hard work and advocacy of GLaWAC on behalf of all Gunaikurnai people. It ensures developers engage with Country in a way that respects our rights and aspirations," GLaWAC chief executive Daniel Miller said.

"Our role is to protect Gunaikurnai rights and values while also exploring opportunities that could bring long-term benefits, should the project proceed. Ensuring we have a voice at the table is the first step.

"This agreement sets a strong precedent for how offshore wind proponents should engage with Traditional Owners, demonstrating the value of meaningful partnerships based on respect and shared outcomes."

Iberdrola Australia is one of 12 proponents granted feasibility licences by the federal government for offshore wind projects off Gippsland's coast.

37 applications were received in total.

The 12 successful applicants are working together to deliver a second round of joint community engagement events to be held in Port Albert, Golden Beach, Sale and Leongatha during March:

Port Albert - Wednesday 12 March 2025, 4pm – 6pm, Port Albert Mechanics Institute;

Golden Beach - Thursday 13 March 2025, 4pm – 6pm, Golden Beach Community Centre;

Sale - Saturday 22 March 2025, 10am – 2pm, Nakunbalook, Sale Botanic Gardens; and

Leongatha - Thursday 27 March 2025, 4pm – 6pm, Leongatha Memorial Hall.