The proposed Nioka Solar Project is one of the largest planning proposals currently affecting North East Country. If approved, it would introduce a large-scale industrial solar development into one of Victoria's productive rural landscapes, raising important questions about land use, planning, agriculture and the future of regional communities.

Fair Go for North East Country was established to ensure local residents have access to clear, factual and accessible information throughout the planning process. Our goal is to encourage informed discussion, genuine community participation and planning decisions that balance renewable energy with the long-term interests of regional Victoria.

This page will continue to serve as a central information hub for the Nioka Solar Project, bringing together planning documents, government announcements, independent research, community updates and other relevant information as it becomes available.

About the Proposal

The Nioka Solar Project is a proposed industrial-scale renewable energy development within North East Country. Like all major developments in Victoria, it is subject to environmental assessment, planning approvals and public consultation before any final decision can be made.

While renewable energy plays an important role in Australia's future, the location, scale and long-term impacts of major developments must be carefully considered. Many members of the community have raised concerns about the potential loss of productive agricultural land, impacts on neighbouring properties, biodiversity, rural landscapes, local infrastructure and the cumulative effect of large industrial developments across the region.

Our Position

Fair Go for North East Country is not opposed to renewable energy. We support renewable energy projects that are planned responsibly, located appropriately and developed through transparent consultation with the communities they affect.

We believe productive farmland should only be considered for industrial development where there is a clear public benefit, suitable alternatives have been properly assessed and local communities have been genuinely heard.

What We Support

  • Transparent and accountable planning processes.
  • Meaningful community consultation before decisions are made.
  • Protection of productive agricultural land.
  • Evidence-based planning supported by independent assessment.
  • Responsible environmental stewardship.
  • Strong regional communities and sustainable local economies.
  • Renewable energy developments located in appropriate locations.

Information Centre

As the project progresses, this section will continue to expand with:

  • Planning documents and government reports.
  • Project timelines and key milestones.
  • Community meeting information.
  • Independent research and technical reports.
  • Frequently asked questions.
  • Maps, planning resources and supporting material.
  • Campaign updates from Fair Go for North East Country.

Stay Informed

Planning decisions made today will shape North East Country for generations to come. We encourage everyone to review the available information, participate respectfully in the planning process and ensure regional communities have a genuine voice in decisions that affect their future.

This page will be updated regularly as new information becomes available.