Overview:
Sydenham Terminal Station is part of Victoria’s main 500kV transmission network, which plays a vital role in moving high-voltage electricity across the state. The network also links Victoria with South Australia’s electricity system.
After more than 40 years in operation, key electrical equipment at the station is coming to the end of its service life and needs to be replaced.
What we're doing
Over the next three years, we'll be building a new Sydenham Terminal Station just north of the current terminal station site. To keep the network operating during construction of the new site, we’ll keep the current terminal station in operation until the new station has been built.
Project timeline
| Project stage | Timing |
Civil construction, including:
|
Late April to October 2025 |
Electrical construction, including:
|
October 2025 to mid-2028 |
What this means for you
Civil construction works will occur on weekdays from 7am to 5pm. You can expect:
- more truck movements in and around the work area.
- more trucks on Melton Highway and Calder Park Drive
We recognise this project may create some disruption to the local community, especially near the Level Crossing Removal Project at Calder Park Drive. We are working closely with Major Transport Infrastructure Authority (MTIA) and the Level Crossing Removal Project to coordinate and minimise impacts where possible.
Note: The above dates and times may change if our works are delayed by weather conditions or unexpected circumstances.
Planning permit
A planning permit has been approved by the Victorian Minister for Planning.
Environment
Reducing our emissions
The upgrade focuses on replacing the terminal station’s existing gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), which is nearing the end of its service life, with air-insulated switchgear (AIS).
Switchgear are electrical devices used to control, protect and safely switch power circuits on and off. This includes equipment like circuit breakers and disconnect switches, which are critical to operating the electricity network safely.
Switching from GIS to AIS will significantly reduce the use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) gas, a potent greenhouse gas. By using less SF₆ and replacing ageing equipment that may leak gas, the project will help lower the station’s environmental impact.
Managing environmental impacts
A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) is in place to help protect the environment and local community during construction. It clearly sets out how we will minimise impacts like noise, dust and other disruptions, and guarantees the work meets all planning permit requirements. Everyone working on-site will be briefed on the CEMP to make sure construction is carried out responsibly and with care for the surrounding area.
Future stages
Future connections to the Sydenham Terminal Station may strengthen the reliability and sustainability of Victoria’s energy supply, supporting the renewable energy transition.
If approved, the Western Renewables Link will connect into the newly built terminal station. These connection works will be included in the Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement.
Contact
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the proposed upgrades:
- Call: 1300 360 795 (8am to 5pm, weekdays)
- Email: transmissionprojects@ausnetservices.com.au