EDO Victoria eBulletin
No. 05 of 2010, 12 March 2010

In This Bulletin:

News & Commentary

· Vale: Byron Webb

· Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee Issues and Options Paper

· Native Vegetation Framework review

· EPA draft noise guidelines for regional Victoria

· EPA draft license guidelines

EPBC Act – Notices of interest

Events

· EDO Seminar Series 2010 – Careers in Environmental Law – 23 March 2010

· EDO workshop – VCAT Planning & Environment Appeals, 30 March 2010

To make a donation in support of our work as the environment’s legal team, please visit www.givenow.com.au/edovic

NEWS & COMMENTARY

Vale: Byron Webb

The EDO is sorry to announce the passing of Byron Webb, an EDO member who had been volunteering with us since June 2008. Many of you would have met Byron at EDO events acting as our photographer, or delivering documents to you. He was readily recognisable with his distinctive dreadlocks and grin. A science and law graduate, Byron went above and beyond in his ongoing contribution to the EDO and will be greatly missed. Byron Webb died in an accident on 25/2/2010, at the age of 23.


Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee Issues and Options Paper

The Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee was established by the Victorian Government to examine whether the Victorian planning system can adequately deal with the impacts of the impacts of climate change on Victoria's coast. The committee has prepared an Issues and Options Paper and public submissions are open until 26 April 2010.

For a copy of the paper, further information and how to make a submission, see the DSE website.


Native Vegetation Framework review

The draft Australia’s Native Vegetation Framework has been released for public consultation. This draft is a strategic national policy framework, aimed at guiding management decisions that affect native vegetation in all jurisdictions and all sectors of the community. When finalised, this framework will replace the 1999 National Framework for Management and Monitoring of Australia's Native Vegetation.

For further information and how to comment, see the DEWHA website. Comments are due by 31 March 2010.


EPA draft noise guidelines for regional Victoria

The Victorian Environment Protection Office (EPA) has released draft guidelines for noise from industry in regional Victoria. The period for public comment on the draft guidelines closes 26 March 2010.

For further information and how to comment, see the EPA website.


EPA draft licence guidelines

The EPA is reforming its licensing system for pollution from premises that might present a risk to the environment.

The EPA has developed draft guidelines to explain the new system. All draft guidelines and how to comment can be found on the EPA website. Comments are due by 1 April 2010.


EPBC ACT – NOTICES OF INTEREST

Public comments are invited on the following Victorian referrals made under the EPBC Act:

· Heavy vehicle trailer exchange at Nhill
VicRoads proposes to construct a truck trailer exchange on farmland south-west of Nhill, which will involve removal of 0.11ha of native vegetation
Comments due: 15 March 2010

· Upgrade of the Eastern Treatment Plant at Bangholme
Melbourne Water proposes to upgrade the existing sewage treatment plant at Bangholme, which is situated within the catchment of two RAMSAR wetland sites.
Comments due: 16 March 2010

· Construction of Melbourne Geelong Interconnection water pipeline between Werribee and Geelong
Barwon Region Water Corporation proposes the construction of a 56.4km long underground water pipeline, between the Cowies Hill Water Reservoir and Geelong. The proposed 30m construction corridor will intersect the State Government's proposed grass land reserve and traverses a number of waterways. Construction of the pipeline has potential to impact wetland water quality.
Comments due: 17 March 2010

EVENTS

EDO Seminar Series 2010 – Careers in Environmental Law

Tuesday 23 March 2010, 5.45pm for a 6 pm start, Carlton

This seminar is ideal for both students and practising lawyers who are interested in a career in environmental law and wondering where to start. A panel of environmental law professionals discuss the different paths and opportunities plus the requirements for you to succeed. Panellists include government, private firm and barrister representatives plus more. Full speaker details and downloadable flyer are available on our website.

Please note: This seminar is free but RSVPs are essential. Book now to avoid missing out: to edovic (at) edo (dot) org (dot) au or 8341 3100.


EDO workshop – VCAT Planning & Environment Appeals, 30 March 2010

Limited places are available for an EDO workshop in Carlton on Tuesday 30 March. Do you need to represent yourself in a VCAT planning and environment appeal, either now or in the future? EDO’s expert lawyers will give you practical and legally-focused information about VCAT proceedings and hearings. The workshop consists of a presentation with plenty of opportunity and encouragement for your questions and participation.

$10 (concession); $20 (full).

Registrations essential: call the EDO on 8341 3100 to register. Visit our website for more details and future dates.


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