Environmental Bulletin – April 2021

Legislation to establish a national standard for industrial chemicals passed

The Australian Government has passed legislation that will establish a national standard for managing environmental risks from industrial chemicals. The national standard will ensure consistency across all states in relation to the use, storage and disposal of chemicals.

Read the Minister for Environment’s media release here.

See the Australian Government’s Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard page for further information on chemicals regulation.

Victoria – Amendment to Environment Protection Act 2017 confirmed for 1 July 2021

The VIC Government has confirmed that the amendments to the Environment Protection Act 2017 have been proclaimed and will be commencing on 1 July 2021. In addition, the process to formally finalise and publish the Environment Protection Regulations and Environmental Reference Standard will proceed.

View Engage Victoria’s EPA subordinate legislation page for more information.

Queensland – Legislation to ban single use plastics passed

The QLD Government has passed legislation to ban certain single use plastic items from the state. From 1 September 2021, single-use plastic straws, stirrers, plates and cutlery, as well as polystyrene foam food containers and cups will be banned. Exemptions will however apply for those who may require single-use plastic items due to temporary or permanent disability or other healthcare needs.

Read the Queensland Government’s “Less Plastic is Fantastic” statement here.