Loddon, Buloke, Central Goldfields shire councils will join 10 other councils in a pilot program designed to improve responses to pollution and waste issues.
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The Officers for the Protection of the Local Environment program is a state government initiative that will respond to the Independent Inquiry into the Environment Protection Authority.
Officers from each council will work with the EPA and councils over a 15 month period to respond to small-scale and low-risk waste and pollution complaints such as illegal dumping, litter, noise, dust and odour pollution.
Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said localcouncil officers will work with the EPA officers.
“The new officers will complement the role of existing EPA based environment protection officers meaning more officers on the ground, more support and expert advice, and more investigations into compliance,” she said.
“This is about delivering practical support to councils to help deliver a healthier and more liveable environment for Victorians.”
EPA based environment protection officers will continue to take the lead and respond to high risk pollution and waste issues while also delivering quicker responses to local pollution issues.
The 2017/18 state budget provided $162.5 million over five years to implement the Labor Government’s response to the Independent Inquiry into the EPA.
It was the first comprehensive examination of the EPA since 1971.
Other councils taking part in the program are Port Phillip, Casey, Greater Dandenong, Wyndham, Surf Coast, Mildura, Greater Shepparton, Wodonga, Brimbank and Hobsons Bay.
