New laws to better protect the environment
From 1 July 2020, EPA will have increased powers to prevent harm to public health and the environment from pollution and waste.
In July 2020, the Environment Protection Amendment Act 2018 will come into effect. This means EPA will be more equipped than ever to meet the environmental challenges facing Victoria.
The Victorian Government undertook a public inquiry into EPA and released its final conclusions in 2016. You told us you want a world class regulator that prevents harm to the environment and public health.
It’s our commitment to work with Victorians to deliver that vision.
When the amended Act comes into force, EPA will have enhanced powers. We’ll use these to prevent risks to the environment and human health. We’ll also be able to issue stronger sanctions and penalties to hold environmental polluters to account.
The general environmental duty (GED) is a centrepiece of the new laws. It applies to all Victorians. If you conduct activities that pose a risk to human health and the environment, you must understand those risks. You must also take reasonably practicable steps to eliminate or minimise them. In an Australian first, the GED is criminally enforceable.
Contact us if you have questions about subordinate legislation and industry guidance development, or to get involved.
You can also contact us with general questions about the new laws.
You can subscribe to our regular newsletters to hear about:
- upcoming consultations
- events and workshops.
Reviewed 6 November 2019
