Overhaul Of WA's Environmental Approvals Processes And Procedures Announced

On 12 December 2023, the Western Australian (WA) Government published the 'Independent Review of WA Environmental Approval Processes and Procedures', prepared by former Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) chair Dr Paul Vogel and planning expert David McFerran (Vogel-McFerran Review), and the Western Australian Government's responses to their recommendations.

The Vogel-McFerran Review made 39 recommendations to improve the environmental approvals framework in WA and streamline project applications. The recommendations broadly relate to amending the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) (EP Act), setting up more in-depth reviews into specific matters, and introducing new policies in the various WA Government departments and agencies involved in the administration of environmental approvals.