What’s happening?
Wambo Wind Farm has introduced a Neighbour Benefit Scheme that extends financial benefits beyond participating landholders to include near neighbours. This comes as Stage 1 turbines begin producing energy for Queensland’s grid.
The project owners, Cubico Sustainable Investments and Stanwell Corporation Limited, said the initiative reaffirms their commitment to local communities.
Why it matters
The scheme is designed to ensure neighbours directly benefit from the infrastructure near their properties, not just host landholders. It reflects a new approach in renewable energy projects that prioritises shared value and long-term community legacy.
Local impact
Eligible neighbours will receive annual payments ranging from $7,500 to $37,500 depending on the number of operating turbines close to their residence. Those with land within 1.5km of a turbine but no residence will receive a flat $7,500 annually. Participation is voluntary, and independent advice will be supported.
By the numbers
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$9 million – in voluntary payments to neighbours over the life of the project.
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$200,000 – available each year through the Community Benefit Fund for local groups.
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$5 million – direct financial contributions to the region per year when operating.
Zoom In
Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke said, “We believe that it’s not just the host landholders that should benefit from the financial investment the Wambo Wind Farm is bringing to their community, but neighbouring landholders as well. This scheme reflects our strong commitment to ensuring that those who live near Wambo Wind Farm are acknowledged, valued, and directly benefit from the infrastructure in their neighbouring backyards.”
He added, “Wambo Wind Farm is about more than clean energy – it’s about building a long-term legacy in the community. We’re proud to be delivering environmental and economic benefits hand in hand, and to be setting a standard for how renewable projects can work in partnership with their neighbours.”
Cubico Sustainable Investments Country Head of Australia David Smith said, “This initiative is in addition to Wambo’s significant contributions to the local area through council rates, host landholder agreements, community benefit fund and local sponsorships. It recognises the surrounding community’s role in hosting this important infrastructure and ensures that our neighbours share in the financial benefits of the project.”
He added, “At Cubico, we believe in setting a higher standard for community engagement and social contribution, and this scheme is part of a broader legacy we are proud to build alongside our partner Stanwell.”
Zoom Out
Beyond the Neighbour Benefit Scheme, Wambo Wind Farm will continue to invest in the community. The Community Benefit Fund will provide up to $200,000 each year for local groups during construction and operations. More than $30,000 annually is also committed to sponsorships of local events and initiatives.
The project consists of 83 turbines and will add more than 500 megawatts of clean energy to Queensland’s system. Together, Cubico and Stanwell are delivering both environmental and economic outcomes for regional Queensland.
What to look for next?
As Stage 1 turbines connect to the grid, the roll-out of neighbour payments and continued funding through the Community Benefit Fund will mark the next steps in strengthening local support.
