NWTD News - September 2026

NWTD construction now underway

Construction has started on the North West Transmission Developments!

NWTD Project Director Richie Sheather said the start of construction was an exciting step forward for the project.

"This milestone represents years of planning, design, approvals and preparation. Our focus now is on delivering this critical infrastructure for Tasmania safely and responsibly while continuing to work closely with landholders and the community."

Head contractor Genus has started on the Sheffield to Burnie section of the project, including access track construction, fencing and building tower foundations, as well as improving drainage at the Sheffield substation.

Figure 1: Current NWTD construction activity between Sheffield and Burnie (in orange).

Genus Land Liaison Officers and TasNetworks Landholder Engagement Partners have also been working closely together with landholders and specialist consultants to coordinate a range of pre-construction surveys across the project area.

Congratulations to our Bright Futures Fund round one recipients!

From a wide range of applications, our Bright Futures Fund Independent Community Assessment Panel carefully assessed and awarded 12 funding grants to projects that will deliver lasting benefits for communities in regional Tasmania.

Some of the successful projects include a sensory playground from Penguin District School, photography portraiture workshops by the Tasmanian Art Teachers Association, and a program for young people living with disability or disadvantage by Young Leaders of Tasmania - just to name a few!

Applications are now open for round two of the Bright Futures Fund

Applications are now open to community‑led projects, big or small, offering four funding tiers ranging from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars.  

Co‑designed with communities, the Bright Futures Fund is focused on creating a positive, lasting legacy for communities surrounding the North West Transmission Developments. 

Learn more and apply at www.tasnetworks.com.au/brightfuturesfund

The SLG is an independently chaired group with representation across key industry and peak bodies, education, skills and training sectors and state government organisations.

Since 2021, the SLG has met between four and six times each year, providing an opportunity for us to understand stakeholder perspectives and receive feedback on a range of matters related to NWTD.

Sid is a well-known identity in the North West, who brings significant experience to the SLG, including most recently as Chair of the Cradle Coast Authority Board (ended in 2025).

With his strong ties to the community and a long career of service in parliament, Sid brings a passion and excitement about the NWTD and a commitment to clear and open communication to the role.

We look forward to continuing working with Sid and the SLG as NWTD now moves from planning to delivery.