The expansion of the natural gas network to regional communities across Victoria is a step closer as the government progresses the delivery of its $100 million Energy for the Regions program.

 

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan, Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien and key representatives from the energy sector participated in an industry stakeholder forum in Melbourne to discuss the detail of the planned roll-out of natural gas supply.

 

Among the initiatives:

  • Fast-tracking an extension of the natural gas supply to 12 initial towns, subject to applications from local councils, including Avoca, Lakes Entrance, Invermay, Winchelsea, Heathcote, Orbost, Warburton, Marong, Bannockburn, Terang, Maldon and Huntly
  • Investing in a major upgrade of Mildura’s natural gas capacity
  • Providing up to $1 million to fund a feasibility study into the provision of natural gas to Victorian communities along the Murray River.

Mr Ryan said funding for the $100 million Energy for the Regions program would be provided through the Victorian Government’s $1 billion Regional Growth Fund.