2020
November 2020
A project outline was prepared for SRL East and referred to the Minister for Planning on 11 November 2020 to decide whether an Environment Effects Statement (EES) was required. Read the SRL East project outline.
December 2020
The Minister for Planning advised that an EES was required for SRL East on 20 December 2020. Read the Planning Minister’s order for the EES and the reason for the decision.
2021
March 2021
The Minister for Planning issued draft scoping requirements for public comment. These requirements set out the matters to be investigated and documented in the EES. Read more about the draft scoping requirements.
July 2021
After considering public submissions on the draft scoping requirements, the Minister for Planning issued the final scoping requirements in July 2021.Read the final scoping requirements.
August 2021
On 5 August 2021, the Minister for Planning amended the order to exclude initial works from the SRL East EES and allow these works to proceed prior to the EES process. Read the amended order and reasons.
November 2021
An independent Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC) was appointed on 14 November 2021 to invite public submissions, chair a Public Hearing and advise the Minister for Planning on the environmental effects of SRL East.
The SRL East EES, including a draft planning scheme amendment (GC197), was exhibited for public comment for 30 business days from 5 November to 16 December 2021. View the SRL East EES and read the submissions made to the IAC published on Engage Victoria.
2022
January 2022
The IAC held a Directions Hearing on 28 January 2022 to discuss the format and timetable for the SRL East public hearings, answering questions and making arrangements for the process.
February 2022
The IAC public hearing was held from 28 February to 5 May 2022. The IAC heard from expert witnesses and considered submissions. Read documents tabled and access links to recordings on Engage Victoria.
June 2022
The IAC submitted its report of recommendations for the Minister's assessment, 35 business days from the last day of the public hearing. Read the report of IAC recommendations.
August 2022
The Minister for Environment and Climate Action released the assessment of the EES which will inform project approvals and controls. Read the Minister's assessment of the SRL East EES.
2023
Procurement is underway on the SRL East tunnelling packages, the first of the main works packages. Contracts are expected to be awarded in 2023 and 2024.