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Works approvals

EPA receives and assesses applications to issue works approvals or licences.

Interested people may comment in writing on the application and may request in writing to be notified if the works approval/licence is issued.

How to complete a works approval application


What are works approvals?

Works approvals are public documents issued by EPA Victoria under the Environment Protection Act 1970 (the Act). Works approvals are required for industrial and waste management activities that have the potential for significant environmental impact. The approvals permit the construction of a plant, the installation of equipment or modification of processes. You require a works approval if you are, or will become, the occupier of a scheduled premises and you are increasing or altering your emissions or the types of wastes that you handle. If the proposed works are for the purposes of a research project rather than a full commercial operation, it may be more appropriate for the occupier to apply for a Research, Development and Demonstration approval PDF doc (PDF Doc) instead of a works approval.


Why do we have works approvals?

The works approval process is designed to ensure the best and most cost effective environmental outcomes on projects. Without works approvals there is increased risk of industrial projects causing pollution issues and requiring expensive retrofitting. Works approvals are an opportunity to save energy and water and to reduce waste at the project design stage, creating value for your business. The full application will usually be 10-20 pages, plus any required attachments.


EPA’s assessment process

The works approval process includes a public comment stage, designed to identify any community concerns early on and to facilitate prompt resolution. A 21 day public comment period will be advertised in the newspaper and on EPA’s website. If comments are received from any third parties, you will be provided with an opportunity to address their concerns. EPA may convene a conference of the parties to assist in resolving those concerns.

EPA will complete its assessment, taking into account any comments received and any applicant responses. EPA will then decide whether to issue a works approval and whether to attach any conditions to the approval. Proposed conditions will be discussed with applicants.

The Act requires that EPA makes a decision on the works approval applications within four months of receiving a complete application. EPA may request further information during the process, or require an extension.

If you or any third party appeal against the works approval or its conditions, the appeal will be heard by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Once you have received a works approval, contact EPA to arrange inspection of the completed works. In most cases a licence will be required. Where appropriate you will be issued with a commissioning approval before the licence, to allow start up and testing of initial operations. Any changes to the works approvals conditions need to be agreed by EPA via a formal request for amendment.


Who can access works approvals?

EPA licences and approvals are public documents, and copies may be purchased by any person on payment of a fee, currently $8. Contact the EPA Information Centre for further details.


Contacting EPA

If you have any questions at any stage of the works approval process, please contact EPA on 1300 372 842.

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