Page 5 - News

More than 20 years ago, the New South Wales government established legislation to rationalise, simplify and strengthen the regulatory framework for environmental protection in NSW. The Protection of the Environment Operations (POEO) Act was authorized in 1997 and is administered by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). The object of the POEO Act is to protect, restore and enhance the quality of the environment in New South Wales. Upon its implementation, it repealed and replaced some of the existing Acts to achieve better regulation for environmental protection - acts repealed by the POEO Act include the Clean Air Act 1961, the Clean Waters Act 1970, the Environmental Offences and Penalties Act 1989. the Noise Control Act 1975, and the Pollution Control Act 1970.

The POEO Act 1997

Spill response has become a topical issue in Australia. From the infamous Montara oil spill in 2009, which is claimed to be the worst oil disaster in Australia’s history, to other spill incidents in the following years, it has become obvious how important spill prevention is to all businesses. Human error and small mistakes can inadvertently cause a disaster, especially if your business is inseparable from the surrounding natural environment, whether on or offshore. Consequently, potentially harmful effects from environmental impacts and on the livelihood of those living in the surrounding areas should be taken into account. Two major pollution incidents in Australia in 2009 and 2011 have had effects lasting years on both businesses and the environment.