The obligation
Causing serious environmental harm by polluting the environment is an offence under EMPCA, with higher maximum fines for bodies corporate than for individuals.
A person who causes serious environmental harm by polluting the environment is guilty of an offence, with a maximum fine of 2 500 penalty units for a body corporate and 1 200 penalty units for a natural person. Offences against sections 50, 51 and 51A are indictable offences, although a court of summary jurisdiction may hear them if satisfied it is proper and both the defendant and prosecutor consent.
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- What
- Causing serious environmental harm by polluting the environment is an offence under EMPCA, with higher maximum fines for bodies corporate than for individuals.
- Source
- legislation.tas.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Offences for causing environmental harm is a WHS requirement set out in Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS). The relevant provision is Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Offences for causing environmental harm is a WHS obligation under Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS). In short, Causing serious environmental harm by polluting the environment is an offence under EMPCA, with higher maximum fines for bodies corporate than for individuals.
What changed recently?
Offences for causing environmental harm was last updated on 9 October 2026.
