Utility of Environmental Impact Assessment Processes in Western Australia: submission to inquiry into the environmental effects statement process in Victoria, Environment and Natural Resources Committee of the Parliament of Victoria

Abstract

I have been asked to discuss a number of issues relating to the inquiry, including: •the key strengths of environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes in Western Australia (WA), including objectives, project referrals, levels of assessment, appeal rights for third parties, and the role of the Environment Protection Authority; •proposed reforms to the WA EIA Framework; •your experiences in environmental impact assessment processes in other jurisdictions, including examples of EIA best practice in Australia and overseas; •the role of strategic environmental assessment; •the most suitable body/agency to carry out EIA; and •post-EIA monitoring and enforcement. A brief report addressing these points is provided following an account of the EIA context in WA