The Environment Protection Act 2017 makes sure EPA is 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. 

The Act came into effect on 1 July 2021. EPA now has enhanced powers to prevent risks to the environment and human health. We’re also able to issue stronger sanctions and penalties to hold environmental polluters to account. 

The general environmental duty (GED) is a centrepiece of the 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. You can also contact us with general questions about the laws. 

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• upcoming consultations 
• events and workshops.