Regional communities deserve power they can rely on – Op Ed

For too long, communities across Euroa and the surrounding district have been expected to accept a standard of electricity supply that simply would not be tolerated anywhere else in Victoria.

When the lights go out in Melbourne, it is an inconvenience. When the lights go out here, businesses close, telecommunications fail, vulnerable residents are left without essential services, and entire communities are placed at risk.

We saw that firsthand during the summer of 2023-24. Power outages occurred every few days, sometimes lasting for days at a time. Our hospital relied on generators. Fuel stations struggled to keep diesel supplies up as businesses and households depended on backup power. Firefighters were affected. Families were left wondering whether they would have electricity through another scorching day.

That cannot become the accepted standard for regional Victoria.

Since being elected, improving power reliability from Benalla through to Longwood East has been one of my highest priorities. Regular meetings with AusNet and the Victorian Minister for Energy have ensured this issue remains firmly on the agenda, and earlier this year there was genuine hope when AusNet proposed a major infrastructure upgrade.

When that proposal was rejected by the Australian Energy Regulator, our community was left wondering how a system could conclude that reliable electricity for regional Victoria was not considered a prudent investment.

The reality is that assessment does not properly reflect communities like ours. We should not have to compete with metropolitan Melbourne to prove that reliable power is worth investing in. Regional Victoria contributes enormously to our state’s economy through agriculture, manufacturing and small business. We deserve infrastructure that reflects that contribution.

As Victoria debates its energy future, one thing is beyond question. Whether electricity comes from renewables, gas or any other source, none of it matters if the infrastructure delivering that power is failing.

The first priority must be building a stronger, more reliable network.

Three years ago there was little consultation and little accountability. Today there is a direct line between our community and senior decision-makers at AusNet, and I will continue pushing until the investment our region needs is delivered.

Every blackout represents more than a loss of power. It is the local business forced to shut its doors. It is the investment that never comes because businesses cannot trust the network. It is the family unable to open their garage during an emergency. It is the thousands of stories shared with me by people who are simply asking for a service most Victorians take for granted.

Regional communities are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for a fair go.

Our region deserves a funded plan, modern infrastructure and a power network that people can depend on every single day.