Much of our municipality has been affected by historical contamination.
Some sites have waste or chemicals on or below the surface, or in groundwater. When these cause actual or potential harm to people or the environment, a site is considered contaminated.
Contaminated land and the law
In Victoria, contaminated land is regulated under the Environment Protection Act 2017 (EP Act).
Under the Act, landowners and land managers, including Council, must:
- Minimise risks of harm to human health and the environment (General Environmental Duty)
- Manage contamination so far as reasonably practicable (Duty to Manage Contaminated Land)
This means that anyone responsible for land must take steps to identify and manage contamination where it may pose a risk.
For more information about environmental duties under the EP Act, please see Meeting your obligations | epa.vic.gov.au
Contaminated land and your health
Whether contamination poses a risk to health depends on:
- The type and concentration of contaminants
- The way you come into contact with them (for example, touching with your skin, or accidentally eating soil)
- The frequency and duration of exposure
Only a qualified medical professional can provide advice on potential health impacts for individuals.
If you have any health concerns, speak to your doctor.
Contact us
Our Waste Futures team is here to help.
Send us a message on My Port Phillip.
Phone: 03 9209 677