EPA Victoria says it will take action to protect its officers, including the prosecution of companies and individuals who obstruct officers from entering their premises.
The warning comes as EPA lays charges against Reservoir company Norstar Recycling and one of its directors JAMES KAYROOZ SAILAH for hindering, delaying or obstructing an EPA officer from entering their Banbury Rd premises in September 2021 and January 2022 to conduct a routine fire risk management inspection.
Under the Environment Protection Act (2017), EPA Authorised Officers have a legal right of entry to a premises in pursuit of their enforcement duties (s266).
Refusal to allow entry can be punishable with a fine of $11,000 (60 penalty units) against an individual and $55,000 (300 penalty units) against a body corporate.
"There have been instances where officers have been refused entry even though it's been explained they have a right, under law, to do so," EPA Executive Director Operations Mark Rossiter said.
"There has been enough time for companies to understand how the new law works and while we will inform first, continued refusal will lead to action.
"Our officers are there to help prevent harm to the community and the environment from pollution and waste. The majority of businesses do comply with their obligations and are not hindering."
