As renewable energy infrastructure supporting Victoria’s cleaner and more reliable energy future, the Bunyip North BESS is eligible for assessment under the Development Facilitation Program (DFP). Under this process, a planning application will be submitted to the Department of Transport and Planning for assessment in Q2 2026.

What is the Development Facilitation Program (DFP)?

The Development Facilitation Program (DFP) is a Victorian Government planning pathway designed to assess projects considered to be of state or regional significance, particularly those that deliver economic, environmental or community benefits. Applications under the DFP are assessed by the Department of Transport and Planning and decided by the Minister for Planning. Local councils remain involved as referral and advisory authorities, and their input is formally considered as part of the assessment. Projects going through the DFP must still comply with the local planning scheme.

How can the community have a say?

Although the Project is being assessed through the DFP, there will still be a public exhibition period where the full planning application and all supporting technical reports are made available for community review. This period is typically 14–28 days, depending on the Minister’s direction. During this time, anyone can make a submission. The Department of Transport and Planning manages the exhibition, and all submissions are considered by the Minister for Planning before any decision is made.

 

In preparation of the planning application, technical assessments are being undertaken including noise, visual and landscape, traffic, fire safety and risk, and environmental studies.

For the indicative layout and high level findings from these assessments, visit Layout & Technical Assessments.