The obligation
A person must not carry out works for a prescribed activity of environmental significance except as authorised by a works approval.
The requirement covers constructing or altering a building or structure, and installing or altering plant or equipment, for use for a prescribed activity of environmental significance. The maximum penalty is $120 000 for a body corporate and $60 000 for a natural person. A works approval is not required for works relating to an activity already authorised by a licence, or for works needing development authorisation under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016.
- What
- A person must not carry out works for a prescribed activity of environmental significance except as authorised by a works approval.
- Source
- legislation.sa.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Requirement for works approval is a WHS requirement set out in Environment Protection Act 1993 (SA). The relevant provision is Environment Protection Act 1993 (SA) > Part 6 — Environmental authorisations > Works approval.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Requirement for works approval is a WHS obligation under Environment Protection Act 1993 (SA). In short, A person must not carry out works for a prescribed activity of environmental significance except as authorised by a works approval.
What changed recently?
Requirement for works approval was last updated on 11 October 2026.
