The Environment Protection Authority Board has resolved to implement
five-year licences under the Environment Protection Act 1993 as
a default tool, and allow up to ten-year licences on application
by licensees.
This decision is the result of several licensees wanting to maintain
their environmental licences over extended timeframes. The changes
will help companies to conduct their businesses without compromising
the environment.
From 1 February 2006, all new licences issued will have a default
term of 5 years, with an option for the applicant to request a
term of 10 years. Similar conditions will apply to all renewals
after 1 March 2006.
Long-term licences will contain a condition that allows the EPA
to review conditions of licence at set times during the licence
term. This will ensure that there is no increase in risk to the
environment, as emerging site issues and changing environmental
standards will be taken into account. Review of conditions will
be similar to the review that presently occurs at licence renewal,
and will involve the same processes. Licence coordinators will
also continue to be involved in this process.
Implementation will occur progressively, and will be complete
once all licences have been renewed. Licences are only renewed
on expiry, and there will still be an annual licence fee.
Please note that this resolution does not relate to exemptions
or works approvals under the Act.
