Who must comply with VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?

Vic PCBUs subject to GED + state EPA permissions.

What triggers VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?

Activity affecting referenced environmental values.

What is the maximum penalty for VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?

Substantial state-based fines + criminal liability for serious breaches

What evidence is required for VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?

Monitoring data against ERS; remediation plans.

VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise) (2026)

Summary

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 (Vic), the Environment Reference Standards (ERS) replace State Environment Protection Policies. Standards cover ambient air quality, ambient sound, ambient water quality, ambient soil, surface water + groundwater.

Enforced by

EPA-VIC

Source legislation

environment protection act 2017 vic

Topics

environmentvicers

Related obligations

VICComply with the General Environmental Duty (VIC)Victorian PCBUs must take 'reasonably practicable' steps to minimise harm to human health and the environment.
VICVIC planning permits (Planning and Environment Act 1987)Vic planning permits required for most development under Planning Schemes.
VICNotify VIC WorkSafe of notifiable WHS incidentsDeath, serious injury, illness or dangerous incident must be notified to WorkSafe immediately.
VICPCBU primary duty of care (Victoria OHS Act s 21)Victorian employers must so far as reasonably practicable provide and maintain a safe working environment.
VICMaintain VBA registration as builder / draftsperson / surveyorVIC building practitioners must hold current registration + appropriate insurance.
VICPay Victorian land tax (including absentee owner surcharge)VIC land tax applies on aggregated taxable value above $50K (general) / $25K (trust); absentee owner +4% surcharge.

Frequently asked questions

Who must comply with VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?: Vic PCBUs subject to GED + state EPA permissions.
What triggers VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?: Activity affecting referenced environmental values.
When is VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise) due?: Continuous.
What is the maximum penalty for VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?: Substantial state-based fines + criminal liability for serious breaches
What evidence is required for VIC Environment Reference Standards (air, water, noise)?: Monitoring data against ERS; remediation plans.