AusNet today released its Draft Transmission Revenue Proposal for stakeholder and customer consultation, setting out a $2.9 billion investment to maintain Victoria’s critical electricity transmission network backbone that supports energy delivery across the state and the broader National Electricity Market.
AusNet Executive General Manager Transmission, Elizabeth Ryan, said this proposal represents a critical step in future-proofing Victoria’s energy infrastructure to safeguard reliability of the transmission network from 2027 to 2032.
“Victoria’s transmission network has delivered for decades and through good asset management, AusNet has consistently been one of Australia’s lowest cost transmission providers, with customer charges lower in real terms than those set at privatisation in 1998.”
“It’s time now for urgent investment to maintain the backbone of Victoria’s electricity network, as much of our grid is 60 years old and is fast approaching its end-of-life.”
“Our customers expect a network that’s reliable, resilient, and ready for the future, without costing any more than it needs to. We believe this proposal delivers on this,” said Ms Ryan.
The proposed funding will enable AusNet to replace ageing infrastructure, strengthen towers vulnerable to extreme weather, and enhance engagement with landholders hosting transmission assets.
AusNet estimates that the resulting increase to Victorians’ electricity bills would be around $5.40 per month (or $65 per year) for an average household.
“We do not propose this increase lightly, but we’re conscious of electricity’s essential role in people’s lives. This proposal is underpinned by rigorous cost-benefit analysis, balancing safety, reliability, and affordability,” added Ms Ryan.
AusNet acknowledged that rising costs of labour, materials and equipment have also made it more expensive to deliver essential maintenance and replacement programs.
AusNet also noted that there are large network growth investments proposed in the draft Victorian Transmission Plan released by VicGrid and with these plans soon to be finalised, AusNet’s plans may need to change to accommodate them.
The draft proposal is now open for public consultation. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback by 30 August by visiting AusNet’s Community Hub.
An updated Proposal will be submitted to the Australian Energy Regulator on 31 October 2025, reflecting public feedback received during the consultation period.