The report draws on workshops and interviews with stakeholders in Batlow, Wellington and Deniliquin and sets out a practical agenda for the NSW Government to build the community trust and support needed to deliver the renewable energy transition and lasting regional benefits. It proposes enforceable engagement standards so that communities can help shape projects from the outset, alongside planning rules that embed community-led benefit-sharing. Financial and technical support should help communities and councils negotiate benefits that reflect local priorities. Lastly, a coordinated, place-based approach should manage the cumulative impacts of developments and bring specific benefit programs together to support long-term regional needs.
