The functions of the NT EPA are established from a range of Acts outlined below, and are consistent with the legislated objectives of the NT EPA:
| Legislation | Key functions and responsibilities |
|---|
Environment Protection Act 2019 Environment Protection Regulations | - Implementing the environmental impact assessment process in the Territory by assessing environmental impacts of development proposals to ensure that development decisions in the Northern Territory take environmental impact into consideration.
- Assessing proposed actions that have the potential for significant environmental impact (an environmental approval must be granted by the Minister for Environment before an activity can proceed in the Northern Territory).
|
Waste Management and Pollution Control Act 1998 | - Issuing of licences to regulate activities.
- Undertaking compliance and enforcement activities to reduce the likelihood of environmental harm resulting from pollution.
- Implementing national standards that have been adopted in the Northern Territory as it relates to NT EPA's functions.
- Maintaining a register of licences and environment protection approvals and related plans for environmental management, compliance plans, pollution abatement notices and section 14 incident notices.
|
Environment Protection (Beverage Containers and Plastic Bags) Act 2011 | - Administering the container deposit scheme and the plastic bag ban.
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Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority Act 2012 | - Providing advice and reporting to the Minister on a range of environmental matters.
- Inquiring and reporting on any aspect of environmental quality in the Territory.
- Undertaking assurance monitoring with the ability to undertake periodic systemic reviews of environmental management matters or its outcomes.
- Providing advice and report to the Minister on specific matters about an proposal, policy, plan or other measure to manage the environmental impact of development on the environment. For example, advice regarding environmental management plans (EMPs) prepared under the Petroleum (Environment) Regulations.
- Developing guidance material to promote good environmental practices.
- Providing technical advice to government and the community on waste and pollution management issues.
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