crib point pakenham pipeline

The proposed Gas Import Jetty and Pipeline Project would increase energy security and supply for AGL’s customers in southeastern Australia. In addition, the pipeline will present other future opportunities for the supply of gas to new and existing developments along the proposed pipeline alignment. The Project includes the construction of a buried pipeline approximately 57 kilometres long, with associated aboveground facilities at Crib Point and east of Pakenham.

APA has developed a project information sheet for landowners and other relevant stakeholders.

Proposed Pipeline Alignment

APA is completing a number of comprehensive studies to refine the alignment in consultation with landholders, businesses and government authorities, and the community as part of our requirements. In determining an efficient and suitable alignment, one of the key objectives is to ensure adverse environmental impacts are minimised during construction and operation. A range of guiding factors were considered for this purpose, including co-location with existing linear infrastructure, environmental values, the number of land parcels and landholders along the proposed pipeline alignment, and current and future land use considerations.

Environmental assessment process

Environment Effects Statement (EES)

On 9 October 2018, the Victorian Minister for Planning announced that an Environment Effects Statement (EES) would be required for the Gas Import Jetty and Pipeline Project. Further information on the EES process is available on the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website.

The pipeline referral for the EES can be found here.

APA has been engaging with directly affected landowners and other key stakeholders along the proposed pipeline route since late 2017 and will continue to consult with interested parties through the EES process.

APA and AGL have established an EES website, which will provide further information and updates through the assessment process.

Approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act

On 28 November 2018, the Australian Department of the Environment & Energy advised the Minister had decided under Section 75 of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) the proposal to construct the pipeline is a controlled action. As such, the project requires environmental assessment and a decision about whether approval for it should be given under the EPBC Act. The project will be assessed under the bilateral agreement with Victoria. Further information about the assessment can be found on the Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE)’s website. 

Pipeline approvals

On 10 September 2018, APA made an application for a pipeline licence under the Pipelines Act 2005 (Vic). The public submission period for the pipeline licence will be timed to occur with the submission period for the EES. Any regulatory approval decisions regarding the pipeline, including a pipeline licence under the Pipelines Act 2005, will occur following the Ministerial assessment of the EES. 

APA has prepared a Pipeline Consultation Plan, which proposes how APA will consult and interact with stakeholders, particularly landowners and occupiers, who are likely to be affected by the Pipeline Project. The Pipeline Consultation Plan identifies key objectives, tools and desired outcomes from the engagement with the relevant stakeholders.

Project timeline

Protection of the unique environment in Western Port and its Ramsar wetland is central to the Project. We are committed to ensuring a robust and comprehensive assessment to inform the EES process. It is recognised that more time is required to present the full set of study data transparently at EES exhibition.

Interactive map

View the Project Study Area and tell us what is important to you by pinning your feedback on the map.

Social Pinpoint is an interactive mapping tool where you can drag and drop comments, suggestions or feedback onto the map. We are seeking your feedback on the important places in the project area and any suggestions you have for the project. Comments received will contribute towards the completion of our EES studies. You can click on additional markers to see what other community members have commented on in the area.

Videos

Construction methodology

Trenchless Construction — Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD):

APA’s commitment to engage with landholders:

Further information

Landholders and other stakeholders will be consulted throughout the assessment process to ensure the potential impacts of the project are properly understood and appropriately addressed in the project's development. If you wish to find out more information or provide feedback about the project, please contact us by:

• Telephoning 1800 531 811.
• Emailing us at cribpointpakenham@apa.com.au.

Further information on the AGL Gas Import Jetty Project is available from the AGL website.

If you have any media-related questions on this project, please email us at media@apa.com.au.

The EES website is updated with planned events for consultation, which forms part of this process. APA and AGL will undertake joint consultation through the EES process for both components of the Gas Import Jetty and Pipeline Project.