Biosecurity Training rolled out for South-West Renewable Energy Zone projects

Renewable energy project developers in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) will soon begin biosecurity training to help them better protect agricultural land and livestock during construction.  

The one-day sessions will be held to outline the biosecurity risks expected to be addressed by renewable projects. Participants will also have an opportunity to learn about the expectations of local farmers and landowners.  

EnergyCo is holding the biosecurity education program, with support from Regional Development Australia – Riverina and Charles Sturt University, with the first session kicking off in Wagga Wagga at Charles Sturt University on 25 November 2025. The program will include classroom and field instruction. 

Another session will be delivered in Hay in early 2026 for each projects’ major contractor which will be responsible for building the renewable projects.  

The South West REZ will initially unlock 3.56 gigawatts of clean energy generation capacity within the next decade. It will be capable of powering up to 1.6 million homes.

The REZ stretches from Dinawan Substation in the east to Buronga Substation in the west and will include:  

• 4 renewable energy projects, including wind, solar and battery storage infrastructure that will connect to new network infrastructure
• 2 new transmission lines - Project EnergyConnect (under construction) and Victoria NSW Interconnector West (VNI West) (under development).

The South West REZ is expected to attract more than $17.8 billion of private investment and is forecast to support an average of about 1,690 direct jobs per year in the local area during construction, with hundreds of ongoing operational jobs from 2031. It will also create additional demand for workers in local manufacturing, retail, transport and the supply of goods and services.

EnergyCo recognises the importance of stringent and effective biosecurity controls when operating in REZs. Measures taken include:

• Property access plans: Plans contain property specific biosecurity measures or controls.
• Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP): Contractors must address weed and pest control, soil hygiene, and vehicle wash down procedures.
• Vehicle and machinery hygiene protocols: Wash down procedures are required to prevent the transfer of weeds, seeds, and soil pathogens between sites.
• Soil and vegetation management: Controlled stripping, storage, and rehabilitation of topsoil to reduce contamination risks and prevent weed invasion.
• Landholder engagement: Information packs and ongoing consultation ensure landholders are aware of biosecurity responsibilities and can raise concerns.
• Compliance with NSW Biosecurity Act 2015: Energy Co projects comply with the state’s “general biosecurity duty” to prevent, eliminate, or minimise risks.
• Monitoring and reporting: Biosecurity risks are monitored during construction and operation phases, with reporting mechanisms to ensure issues are addressed promptly. 

Quote attributable to EnergyCo South West REZ Project Director Michael Oppermann: 

“These sessions will help renewable energy zone developers and major contractors get up to speed on the biosecurity requirements needed to work with local farmers as we upgrade the grid to secure our energy future.” 

Quote attributable to Regional Development Australia Riverina Rachel Whiting: 

“We are proud to be working with EnergyCo and Charles Sturt University to ensure the best possible outcomes for landowners in the state’s renewable energy zones. These sessions are critical to connecting renewable developers with the information they need to help deliver a successful project and care for the rural environment."