The Western Australian government is set to introduce significant reforms to the state’s environmental approval laws, aiming to expedite major job-creating projects while maintaining high environmental standards.
The Environmental Protection Act Amendment Bill 2024 will be presented to Parliament, marking the most substantial changes to WA’s environmental approval laws in a generation.
These reforms are a response to the Vogel-McFerran Review, which identified issues with the current system’s complexity, time consumption, and cost.
A major change allows other government regulators to issue approvals before the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) completes its environmental impact assessment.
This parallel decision-making policy could potentially save years in the approval process for projects. To maintain strong environmental protections, penalties for carrying out work without approval will double, imposing fines of up to $125,000 for individuals and up to $250,000 for body corporates.
The independent EPA board will also be expanded to include between five and nine members with specific skills or experience relevant to EPA functions.
Additionally, the Environment Minister will provide the EPA with a ‘Statement of Expectation’ to help the agency better understand government priorities, including the green energy transition, housing delivery, job creation, and the protection of Western Australia’s unique environment.
Premier Roger Cook emphasised that these reforms aim to streamline processes while maintaining high environmental standards.
He stated: “This legislation strikes the right balance — slashing green tape, removing duplication, and reducing delays—all while maintaining the highest environmental standards.”
Cook highlighted the need for an environmental approvals framework that is modern and fit for purpose, ensuring that Western Australia continues to be the engine room of the nation and a leader in green energy.
Environment Minister Reece Whitby echoed these sentiments, asserting that the WA government has accomplished more for WA’s environment than any previous administration.
He noted that these reforms will support efficient processes for businesses while upholding the state’s high environmental protection standards.
Whitby reassured that the changes will not alter how the EPA assesses environmental impacts, emphasising that they are sensible adjustments designed to streamline approval processes without compromising the EPA’s independence.
As these reforms take shape, they promise to balance environmental protection with economic development, positioning Western Australia as a leader in green energy while supporting job creation and efficient project approvals.