Guidance note: Where a Project:

▪  has been declared 'public works' under the Environment Effects Act 1978 (Vic) (EEA) requiring submission of an Environment Effects Statement (EES) to the Minister for Planning; or

▪  is referred by a proponent or a decision-maker to the Minister for Planning in accordance with section 8 of the EEA to make a decision on the need for an EES,

details of the EES process should be provided to Respondents, including any determination of the Minister for Planning pursuant to section 8B(3) of the EEA on the requirement for an EES and the current status of the EES process where an EES is required and such process has not been concluded.  Details may include:

▪  the current status of preparation of the EES and date of release for public review and submission;

▪  where an EES has been prepared and released, whether the Minister for Planning has appointed an inquiry to evaluate the effects of the Project.  If the Minister has appointed an inquiry, an outline of the inquiry process including current status;

▪  where the Minister for Planning has released his assessment under the EEA, the date of release and details of the Minister's conclusions (Assessment Decision); and

▪  whether the Assessment Decision will inform decisions required under Victorian law (e.g. a Planning Scheme Amendment).

To assist the Respondents' understanding of the EES process, Procuring Agencies may consider including an indicative EES process timetable.  

Where an EES has been prepared and includes environmental performance requirements that must be met in designing and delivering the Project asset(s), these should also be specified.  

Web address details should also be provided detailing where Respondents can download published referrals and notices.