Major projects must be assessed by the Australian Government if they could impact on matters of national environmental significance. We’ve been keeping you updated on how the Cethana pumped hydro project is progressing through this process.

Last year, we submitted an updated application (called a “referral”) and invited public feedback early this year. Since then, the Commonwealth has confirmed that the Project needs a full environmental assessment (this is called a ‘controlled action’).

The assessment will be done using what’s known as a Public Environment Report (PER). The Government has issued guidelines to us on what we need to include in the PER. This process is managed by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

What does that mean for you?

Once DCCEEW is satisfied with our PER, we will:

• Publish the document on our website
• Invite the community to review and provide feedback
• Consider and address any public comments.

The final decision will be made by the Federal Environment Minister.

We’re currently working on the Public Environment Report and expect to submit it later this year. We’ll let you know when the next public comment period opens.

Keep an eye on this page and our socials for updates!

Want to know more about the referral? Check out our quick explainer.

Cethana Pumped Hydro Project: EPBC Act Referral - January 2026

State and local approvals

The proposed Workforce Accommodation Facility requires its own Development Application (DA). A draft application has been given to Kentish Council for review.

We’re currently preparing the Project’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and responding to Kentish Council’s request for more information on the Project’s DA. We plan to submit a draft EIS later this year. We will consult the local community on the likely impacts and proposed mitigation measures once all draft documents have been prepared.

Once all documents are finalised, and consultation with the local community is complete, the documents will be put on public exhibition. Our aim is to have all regulatory documents on public exhibition at the same time so the public can understand the full picture of the project.

NOTE: The project has not reached a Final Investment Decision. It will require the environmental and planning approvals noted above and approval by the Tasmanian Parliament.