Acknowledgment of Country
VicGrid VNI West proudly acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which VNI West is to be delivered, including those recognised through Native Title and those recognised by the State of Victoria as Registered Aboriginal Parties. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
VicGrid also acknowledges other First Peoples who maintain cultural connections, custodial responsibilities, and ongoing relationships to the lands and waters across the project area. We recognise their deep connection to Country and the significant role they play in caring for and managing land, water, natural and built landscapes, and in maintaining profound knowledge systems.
We remain committed to building genuine and enduring partnerships with First Peoples, grounded in respect, transparency, and cultural authority, to ensure that the planning and delivery of this project reflects their rights, culture, and connections to Country.
Working together
Elders and representatives from all impacted Traditional Owners groups have taken part in a range of project activities from workshops and On Country Days, to representation on the project’s Technical Reference Group. This commitment to working together will continue as the project moves into the Development Phase. Traditional Owners have provided valuable input into a range of project areas including:
- Cultural heritage management
- Social and environmental impact
- Long term benefits and legacy outcomes
- Procurement of the project delivery partner
Ongoing involvement of Traditional Owners on VNI West is critical to ensuring the success of the project and delivering benefits for all communities.
