Interventions by Environmental Protection Unit for waste disposal
Authority [[department-of-environment-food-and-agriculture
Date received 2026-02-05
Outcome All information sent
Outcome date 2026-03-04
Topic [[healthcare-public-health

Summary

The request sought confirmation of Environmental Protection Unit interventions regarding high-volume waste disposal risks and associated costs over the last 12-18 months. The Department confirmed two interventions involving commercial companies, violations of the Public Health Act 1990, and that while no direct taxpayer costs were incurred for waste removal, officer time was utilized.

Key Facts

  • The Environmental Protection Unit intervened on two occasions with commercial companies posing environmental risks due to high-volume waste gathering.
  • Part IV of The Public Health Act 1990 regarding Refuse Disposal was violated by the businesses involved.
  • A Supervision of Licensed Activities Notice was served on one company requiring waste removal within six months, which remains non-compliant.
  • A second site was found to be in non-compliance due to waste overflowing into unauthorized areas, with an agreed action plan for removal within three to twelve months.
  • There were no direct costs to the taxpayer for the removal or disposal of waste, though officer time was spent managing the incidents.

Data Disclosed

  • 2 occasions
  • 12-18 months
  • 6 months
  • 3 to 12 months
  • 04 March 2026
  • 5 February 2026
  • section 63(5)
  • section 57
  • 5284549

Original Request

Can the department confirm whether in the last 12-18 months the Environmental Protection Unit have had to intervene with any commercial companies or individuals who have been posing a risk to the environment due to recycling/ waste gathering in high volume.

Was the following legislation violated by actions of any individual(s)/businesses?

  • The Collection & Disposal of Waste Regulations 2000
  • Part IV of The Public Health Act 1990 - Refuse Disposal

Can the following questions be answered by the department: A) What action did the department take against any individual(s)/company(s)? B) Has the waste been removed/disposed from the site(s)? C) Did this come at any cost to the taxpayer?