Greater visibility and continued action, through more site inspections, industry guidance and stronger sanctions for non-compliance, will continue as the cornerstonesof EPA Victoria’s operations in 2024-2025.

Overall, EPA data in Gippsland shows the community is still highly motivated to contact the state’s environmental regulator about pollution.

“In Gippsland, we were contacted on 1,028 occasions last financial year by community members who acted to help us protect the environment,” said EPA Gippsland Regional Manager Jessica Bandiera.

“Some of the more recurring issues reported to us included the release of treated water during storm events, as well as a greater awareness of waste dumping as an issue that is affecting all Victorians.

“Our officerswork very hard to try to address all pollution and waste issues. We partner closely with other regulators including WorkSafe Victoria, Resources Victoria and local government to combat pollution, but every Victorian has a stake and a responsibility to prevent harm from pollution and waste.

“We’re grateful to the community for contacting us and reporting pollution problems so if you see or suspect pollution, contact EPA at 1300 372 842 or www.epa.vic.gov.au.

“If you would like to talk to EPA staff including our water scientists about our Gippsland Lakes water sampling program, how we can support your business in compliance with the EP Act 2017, how to report pollution in your area or anything else on your mind, please join us in Bairnsdale on 8 October for our community meeting.

EPA Community Meeting Bairnsdale

Date: Tuesday 8 October

Time: 1pm to 4pm

Location: The Hub, 27 Dalmahoy St, Bairnsdale.