The Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D'Ambrosio, has introduced the long awaited Environment Protection Amendment Bill 2018 (Bill) into State Parliament today. Representing the biggest environmental regulatory shake-up in Victoria in decades, this overview summarises key reforms arising from the Bill.
This Bill will completely replace the Environment Protection Act 1970 (Vic) (EP Act), and is intended to implement key reforms in the Government's response to the 2016 Inquiry into the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
The Bill introduces a new scheme for the regulation of the impacts of pollution, waste and contaminated land on human health and the environment focussed on minimising risks. Central to this scheme is a general preventative duty to minimise the risks of harm to human health and the environment arising from pollution and waste.
If passed this year the scheme has a long implementation period, with full implementation to occur no later than 1 December 2020.
KEY REFORM HIGHLIGHTS
New duties and obligations |
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Authorisations |
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Offences |
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Enforcement |
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Supporting instruments |
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Remedies |
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Waste |
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WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
Industries and businesses will need to be mindful of transitional provisions as proposed by the Bill, as these new regimes come into effect. Affected industries and businesses will need to review their practices in relation to the management of the risks arising from pollution and waste from their activities, and, if necessary, put in place new compliance procedures.
Our Environment and Planning team at Corrs have an extensive understanding of the reforms proposed by the Bill and are well-placed to provide guidance during this critical implementation phase.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
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