The obligation
Chapter 2 sets out principles of environment protection, including proportionality, primacy of prevention, polluter pays and the precautionary principle.
Prevention of harm is preferred to remedial or mitigation measures, and protection is a responsibility shared by government, industry, business and the community. Persons who generate pollution and waste should bear the cost of containment, avoidance and abatement. Waste should be managed in order of preference: avoidance, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, containment, then disposal.
- What
- Chapter 2 sets out principles of environment protection, including proportionality, primacy of prevention, polluter pays and the precautionary principle.
- Source
- content.legislation.vic.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Principles of environment protection is a WHS requirement set out in Environment Protection Act 2017 (VIC). The relevant provision is Environment Protection Act 2017 (Vic) > Chapter 2 — Principles.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Principles of environment protection is a WHS obligation under Environment Protection Act 2017 (VIC). In short, Chapter 2 sets out principles of environment protection, including proportionality, primacy of prevention, polluter pays and the precautionary principle.
What changed recently?
Principles of environment protection was last updated on 19 October 2026.