Environmental Bulletin – July 2021
Victoroa – New environment protection subordinate legislation tools finalised
The VIC Government has finalised and published the new Environment Protection Regulations 2021, Environment Protection Transitional Regulations 2021 and the Environment Reference Standard, following a period of consultation. All three instruments will commence on 1 July 2021 and operate under the amended Environment Protection Act 2017.
Visit EPA Victoria’s subordinate legislation tools page for more information.
See the Victorian Government Gazette here.
New South Wales – Waste strategy and plastics action plan released
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has released the NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041 and NSW Plastics Action Plan which will see more than $365 million invested to deliver on the State’s commitment to achieve zero emissions from organics in landfill by 2030. Various plastics, including single-use lightweight bags, straws and stirrers, will be phased out, and green bins for food and organic waste will soon be rolled out state-wide. Consultation on necessary legislation to deliver on the plans will occur in the coming months.
Read the NSW EPA Waste strategy and Plastics Plan statement here.
View the NSW EPA media release for more information.
Queensland – Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill introduced
The QLD Government has introduced the Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 into Parliament. The Bill aims to make minor administrative amendments to clarify some aspects of petroleum and mining leases, however it does not provide any new rights or obligations for existing holders of petroleum tenures or mining leases. Among other things, it would clarify that leases approved under the Mineral Resources Act 1989 between 1989 and 2010 have always been valid despite not having a hard copy, and that valid renewal applications for production leases under the Petroleum Act 1923, made prior to its expiry, will remain valid while a decision is made on its renewal.
Read the Queensland Minister for Resources media statement.
View the Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 explanatory notes