If you have a major development, industrial, or mine project in the works, chances are pretty high that environmental planning services will be required in all stages of your project’s life. From planning to closure, your project will be assessed against a high volume of local, state, and commonwealth legislation, including environmental. Here are the ‘must know’ facts to help you decide, “What environmental planning services do I need?”

Who Needs Environmental Planning Services?

Environmental regulations and requirements are interwoven through all planning legislation, however the more specialised environmental planning services are most commonly required for environmental approvals and environmental impact assessments pertaining to environmentally relevant activity (ERA) .

ERA encompasses any intensive activity undertaken that has the potential to have a significant impact on the environment, biodiversity, and surrounding ecosystem.

Industries and projects most commonly required to meet specific environmental assessment and management criteria are:

• Industrial;
• Agricultural (grazing and crop); and
• Resources (mining, petroleum, geothermal, greenhouse gas)

Environmental Authorities (EA)

An environmental authority (EA) is required for an ERA to be undertaken in Queensland.  This approval is an assessment of the proposed activity and its potential impacts on its environment, including the outlining of strategies to minimise and manage environmental impacts.

Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)

Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) are generally required by large-scale resource projects.  This is a much more comprehensive document than an EA and involves several environmental disciplines.

The purpose of the EIS is to assist with:

• Identifying potential issues and impacts;
• Accountability and public notification;
• Outlining the strategy for managing environmental impact for the life of the project;
• Informed decision-making processes by Commonwealth and state authorities;
• Addressing environmental legislation; and
• Assessing the feasibility of alternative, lower-risk activity options within the project.

Outside the Specialised Environmental Services: Planning Schemes

Environmental assessment can be found within your local planning scheme, for any type of development.  The planning schemes address a broad range of environmental activity regulations, with examples such as:

• Noise, dust, and sound pollution;
• Native flora and fauna;
• Vegetation;
• Waterways;
• Biodiversity;
• Environmental management; and
• Bushfires, floods, and soils.

In general, these environmental codes are addressed as a part of the standard development application, however your town planner will be able to identify whether further environmental approvals or impacts statements will be required as a part of the application.

What Legislation is Addressed in an EA or EIS?

The legislations relevant to your project will depend on the location and purpose of the project.  The core legislation addressed in an EA or EIS are:

Commonwealth:   Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Queensland:   Department of Environment and Science

Environmental Protection Act 1994

Local Government Area (LGA): The local council of the project’s region

Planning Schemes for LGAs are available on local council websites.  Some examples for Central Queensland include:

• Central Highlands Regional Council Planning Scheme 2016
• Isaac Regional Council Planning Scheme 2021
• Mackay Regional Council Planning Scheme 2017
• Rockhampton Region Planning Scheme 2015
• Gladstone Regional Council Planning Scheme 2015
• Longreach Regional Council Planning Scheme 2015
• Barcaldine Regional Council Planning Schemes
• Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017

Town Planners and Environmental Planning

Environmental legislation can be a minefield, making environmental approvals and environmental impact statements a heavy and stressful part of the project.  Town planners that specialise in environmental planning and regional development have the knowledge, skills, and contacts to reduce the risks, time, and costs associated with environmental impact.

Have an obligation-free chat to Wall Planning and Environmental Consulting’s specialist team TODAY about the services available for your project.