Environment Bulletin - January 2025
Australia – Review of ACCU Scheme alternative waste treatment method underway
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is undertaking a review of the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative – Alternative Waste Treatment) Methodology Determination 2015 prior to its expiry on 31 March 2025, and is seeking feedback on its compliance with the Offset Integrity Standards as well as other outstanding matters. A consultation paper has been released to support the review. Comments close 2 December 2024.
Read more from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment & Water here.
New South Wales – Bill to amend pipelines and gas safety legislation introduced
The NSW Government has introduced the Energy Amendment (Pipelines and Gas Safety) Bill 2024 into Parliament. The Bill will make amendments to the Gas Supply Act 1996 and Pipelines Act 1967 that will increase penalties for offences, expand, clarify and align the powers of inspectors in both Acts, and introduce an offence for damaging gas works or pipelines, among other amendments.
Western Australia – Proposed planning schemes exempt from EPA assessment released
The WA Government has consulted on the Draft Environmental Protection Amendment Regulations (No. 2) 2024 which proposes additional classes of relevant planning schemes and scheme amendments that can be exempt from being referred to the EPA due to not having a significant impact on the environment. The changes will support current work to streamline the environmental approvals process. An information paper was also released.
Read more from the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation here.