New EPA Act

6 August 2021

Good for business, good for all

Changes to Victoria’s environmental legislation took effect recently, with Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and its inspectorate to focus on preventing harm before it happens.

Tightening EPA regulations will have a ripple effect across the automotive industry, resulting in greater business transparency and accountability.

VACC is working with the auto industry – particularly auto recyclers and wreckers – to review current processes.

Minimising harm to human health and the environment from pollution and waste is the goal.

This is a major step in the right direction towards an end-of-life vehicle scheme.

But for now, it’s about supporting business owners and making sure they know their new obligations – as well as what repercussions they face for non-compliance.

VACC is communicating with its members the importance of correct waste classification, working with licensed collectors, and using EPA’s new Waste Tracker program.

The new EPA permission system requires auto recyclers to be registered and vehicle dismantling and recycling to be undertaken at a ‘lawful place’.

This will vastly increase the transparency of auto recycling operations throughout Victoria.

With time and investment, a level playing field and environmental improvement can be achieved.

The automotive industry is behind EPA efforts.

It will be a process, but businesses can comply with the law by identifying, controlling, and managing their risks to the environment.

The auto industry continues to be proactive and work collaboratively with bodies like EPA.

We all have the same goal when it comes to the environment and wanting to keep people safe.

That’s good for everyone.

Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun 6 August 2021.

Share your thoughts! E: ceo@vacc.com.au