Progress at Australia’s first offshore wind farm as Star of the South starts recruiting

Australia’s first offshore wind project, the proposed 2.2GW Star of the South, has posted three job vacancies on its website looking for a head of approvals, senior land advisor, and compliance officer.

The Star of the South offshore wind farm, which is set to be located off the south coast of Gippsland in Victoria, would be the first offshore wind farm in Australia and, hopefully, the first of many, considering the bountiful offshore wind resources Australia boasts and their proximity to the lion’s share of the country’s population.

The job openings are good news for those of us who have been advocating for the development of the project, as it shows that it is moving beyond the investigative phase – a necessary component including environmental and marine assessment.

The new roles call for compliance monitoring, reporting, and project coordination; liaison with local landholders and other stakeholders, and; management of the necessary project approvals such as impact assessments and environmental assessments.

In 2021, Star of the South entered into a $43.1 million partnership with the Victorian Government designed at accelerating the development of the project and a local Victorian offshore wind industry.

Similarly, new federal legislation passed in November 2021 will enable offshore electricity projects to be built and operated in Australia. Specifically, the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill 2021 provided the necessary legal framework and pathway for offshore wind projects to continue developing.

“We welcome the passing of the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill and acknowledge the work of Minister Taylor and the Australian Government in prioritising this important legislation,” said Casper Frost Thorhauge, Star of the South CEO, speaking in November.

“We look forward to ongoing engagement with government on the development of more detailed regulations next year.”

“This Bill is a major milestone in kick-starting a new industry, realising Australia’s offshore wind potential and unlocking jobs and economic benefits for regional Australia.”

All three job descriptions can be viewed here and applications are open for each job.