Land Approvals
Securing land approvals is a key step for new wind, solar and battery projects in Western Australia’s energy transition. This process ensures we build new energy infrastructure in a way that respects the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.
To begin a project, renewable project developers must first understand the tenure of the land they wish to use. In WA, land is generally classified in one of two ways:
Freehold Land: This is privately owned land. Access requires direct engagement and negotiation with the landowner.
Crown Land: This is land managed by the State. Access and tenure is coordinated through the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH).
Whether a developer needs short-term access for site studies or long-term tenure to construct a wind farm, getting the right permissions around land access early is often the key to a successful project.
Legislative frameworks
Land access, approvals and agreements are governed by several legislative frameworks at the State, regional and local levels.
Heritage framework
The energy transition must be delivered in a way that respects culture and significant sites, while also allowing Aboriginal peoples to participate and share in the benefits of the transition to renewables.
Native Title recognises the enduring connection of Traditional Owners to their land under Australian Law. If a project area is subject to Native Title, developers negotiate directly with Native Title holders.
Under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, developers must assess and avoid harm to heritage sites. Depending on the project's potential impact, a range of approval types may be required from the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs or the Registrar of Aboriginal Sites to ensure these areas are managed with the highest care.
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