Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation has signed an Engagement Agreement with the developers of offshore wind project Blue Mackerel, reinforcing what the Corporation calls its "leadership in shaping how large-scale renewable energy projects engage with Traditional Owners during early planning".
The agreement marks a key milestone, ensuring Gunaikurnai people are actively involved at the feasibility stage of the proposed Blue Mackerel Offshore Wind Project, which aims to deliver up to 1GW of renewable energy, enough to power over half a million Victorian homes by 2032.
The Corporation (GLaWAC) is the Registered Aboriginal Party that represents the Gunaikurnai people, Traditional Owners of much of Gippsland, as determined by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, 2006.
The agreement provides initial resourcing for GLaWAC to "advocate for the rights, interests and aspirations" of the Gunaikurnai community throughout the feasibility stage. This includes cultural protections, employment pathways, sustainable economic development, and genuine community engagement.
If the project progresses beyond feasibility, GLaWAC will consult with members to determine the best path forward and ensure any future development respects Gunaikurnai Country and delivers meaningful benefits for members and the broader community.
As with all current feasibility proposals in the region, GLaWAC remains committed to transparency. Any future decision-making will involve consultation with Gunaikurnai members, and a careful assessment of how potential development aligns with community priorities.
GLaWAC Acting chief executive Charee Smith said on Monday the agreement "is about being involved early and on our terms".
"It's not an endorsement of the project, although it reflects a shared commitment to respectful engagement. The Gunakurnai voice must be part of every conversation from here," she said.
"We have a responsibility to protect what matters to our members and to make sure any future development, should it proceed, reflects our values and aspirations."
Parkwind Australia Country Head Anil Chanana said the agreement with GLaWAC marked "an important step in Blue Mackerel's ongoing development process allowing Blue Mackerel to further mature its current relationship with the Gunaikurnai people".
"It formalises our commitment to working collaboratively with Gunaikurnai people, respecting their rights, culture, and aspirations," he said.
"We look forward to building a lasting partnership that delivers meaningful, long-term benefits for the Gunaikurnai community and the broader Gippsland region."