EPA and local councils are key organisations responsible for the regulation and management of contaminated sites in Victoria.
The community also has an important role to play in reporting contamination and pollution.
EPA can investigate issues relating to contamination, require clean-up, and can issue infringement notices. It can also take people and organisations to court for non-compliance with the Environment Protection Act 2017 (EP Act). EPA publishes information about its enforcement activities on its website.
The Environment Protection Act 2017 is the current Act under which contaminated land in Victoria is regulated and came into effect 1 July 2021.
The Environment Protection Regulations 2021 and Environment Reference Standard support the objectives of the EP Act.
Find out more about relevant legislation and regulations via the links below:
Guidelines help businesses and the community understand the EP Act, its regulations, and how they apply to them. Guidelines published by the EPA which are relevant to contaminated land include:
- 1915: Contaminated land policy
- 1940: Contaminated land: Understanding section 35 of the Environment Protection Act 2017
- 1977: Guide to the duty to manage contaminated land
- 2008: Guide to the duty to notify of contaminated land
- 2010: Potentially contaminated land – A guide for business
- 1466: Land fact sheet provides more information about EPA’s role in regulating land pollution.
The Environment Protection Act 2017 establishes the powers, duties and functions of EPA. Visit the EPA website for more information.
The planning system is the primary means for regulating land use and approving development, and is an important mechanism for triggering the consideration of potentially contaminated land.
The Planning and Environment Act 1987 and Ministerial Direction No. 1 are generally administered by local governments and planning authorities. This legislation is relevant to the management of potentially contaminated land, including where land use is changing from a less sensitive use to a more sensitive use.
Planning Practice Note 30: Potentially Contaminated Land provides guidance for planners and applicants on potentially contaminated land.
More information about planning and contamination can be found at:
Page last updated: 08/06/23