Environmental auditor guidelines for conducting verifications

Purpose of this guideline

This guideline explains the expectations of an environmental auditor when verifying actions and measures undertaken to comply with:

• an EPA notice or order
• a condition under an EPA licence, permit or registration
• other EPA guidelines.

This guideline describes the verification function in accordance with Regulation 164(a) of the Environment Protection Regulations 2021 and sets out clear expectations for environmental auditors when undertaking them.

While prepared for environmental auditors, this guideline may also be useful for:

• responsible authorities and other statutory authorities
• consultants undertaking work that is being verified by an environmental auditor
• duty holders who engage an environmental auditor to undertake a verification.

This guideline is issued under section 203 of the Environment Protection Act 2017 (the Act). If it is replaced, amended or updated, we’ll notify environmental auditors.

When to use this guideline

Use this guideline for prescribed functions under Regulation 164(a) of the Environment Protection Regulations 2021.

That is, when you’re asked to verify actions and measures to comply with:

• an improvement notice (issued under section 271 of the Act)
• a prohibition notice (issued under section 272 of the Act)
• a notice to investigate (issued under section 273 of the Act)
• an environmental action notice (issued under section 274 of the Act)
• a site management order (issued under section 275 of the Act)
• a condition of a permission
• guidelines issued by EPA under the Act.

Under Regulation 165, EPA may approve functions of environmental auditors. If we do this, we will publish the notice of approval in the Government Gazette.

Situation specific guidance

The EPA may provide situation specific guidance as necessary. This may extend, clarify or vary the guidance provided in this guideline.

Wind energy facility verifications

When verifying post-construction noise assessments for wind energy facilities, refer to Environmental Auditor guidelines - Verification and review for wind energy facilities. 

This guideline does not apply to

• Verifications triggered by other Acts. Under Regulation 164(c), an environmental auditor verification may be triggered by Acts other than the Act. While parts of this guideline may be relevant, please seek guidance from the requester to understand their expectations.
• Landfill design assessments.
• Verifications which are not prescribed under Regulation 164.

More information

Please email environmental.audit@epa.vic.gov.au