The Cooperative Research Centre of Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment, in consultation with the National Remediation Framework Steering Group, has released the National Remediation Framework. The Framework is intended for use by land owners and managers, government agencies and site contamination practitioners as a reference point for best practice methods and approaches to remediation. Read more
In response to industry feedback, the Queensland Government has included temporary amendments to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (Qld) (EP Act) in their Justice and Other Legislation (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Amendment Bill 2020 (Response Bill), which was introduced on 19 May 2020. Read more
A community group of bushfire survivors has commenced proceedings in the NSW Land and Environment Court against the NSW Environment Protection Authority to encourage or compel the development of policies to address NSW’s greenhouse gas emissions. Read more
Government’s intent to reform the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) has been formalised with the tabling of the Environmental Protection Amendment Bill 2020 (WA) on 16 April 2020. While framed as a modernisation of the Act, the substantive reform proposed in the Bill is modest in nature and not comparable to the wholesale reform elsewhere in Australia. However, a number of the amendments will see far greater clarity and real procedural efficiencies, particularly in the Part IV and Part V assessment and approval processes. Read more
The Victorian Government’s recent circular economy strategy outlines a bold plan to transform Victoria’s relationship with waste and recycling. The Recycling Victoria strategy represents a fundamental change of mindset and will require changed behaviours from industry and consumers. Businesses operating in this space should be aware of the investment opportunities presented by the changing waste landscape. Read more
COVID-19 poses a real risk of staff absences and impacts on environmental supply chains. There may also be the need for operations to cease temporarily, and at short notice. Business will need to consider the threat this poses to their capacity to comply. COVID-19 will not excuse businesses from meeting environmental obligations. Read more
If you are a property owner in South East Queensland, you should consider whether you need to make a submission on the: result of your property’s Koala Habitat Map Report (if your property has been developed) by 22 December 2019; and Draft SEQ Koala Conservation Strategy 2019 – 2024 (Draft Strategy) by 31 January 2020. … Read more
