In its first week, the new National Environmental Protection Agency (National EPA) has green lit its first residential development.
The project in Bullsbrook, 40 kilometres northeast of Perth, will create up to 600 residential lots.
After reviewing the proposal, the National EPA determined the Bullsbrook development did not require further assessment under national environmental laws.
National EPA Chief Executive Officer, John Bradley said the approval demonstrated the capacity for well designed proposals to enable faster decision making and assessment pathways.
“The quick decision was due to good site selection and detailed information from the proponent.
“It was clear that the development will have a minimal impact on the local environment.
“This decision reflects the agency’s focus on making timely housing project decisions that are good for business and the environment.”
Following environmental law reform, the National EPA began operating on 1 July. The agency will:
- strengthen the protection of Australia’s environment
- improve compliance with environmental laws
- provide clear regulatory pathways
- speed up approval assessments and project decisions.
Mr Bradley said the National EPA was focussed on delivering real improvements for the environment, the economy and community.
“We want to enable environmentally responsible economic activity and do it in a way that is evidence-based,” Mr Bradley said.