Waste company Veolia have been denied a permit to construct a waste transfer station in Hampton Park. An environmental impact assessment by the EPA noting “unacceptable risks to human health”. Despite this, Veolia are now appealing the decision through VCAT based on a minor technicality. Speaking on behalf of concerned residents, Rachel sought assurance from the Minister that this project will not go ahead.
Tuesday 27th of May 2025,
Victorian Legislative Council
Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
My constituency question is for the Minister for Planning. My constituent is an engaged community advocate and resident of Lynbrook and one of many locals who have voiced their concerns about Veolia’s proposed waste transfer station in Hampton Park. After a comprehensive environmental impact statement, Victoria’s Environment Protection Authority refused the development licence application earlier this year.
Veolia has appealed the decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, and a hearing is scheduled for August. Residents have grave concerns for the outcome of this appeal. The EPA’s decision to refuse the application was determined by unacceptable risks to human health. Overturning this decision risks severe consequences and undermines public trust in government agencies like the EPA.
My constituent asks: if Veolia’s appeal is successful, will the minister uphold the EPA’s decision to refuse this development?
Response Received, 18th of June 2025:
I thank the Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region for her question.
Veolia’s appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) relates to the Environment Protection Authority’s decision on a development licence application. The Minister for Environment is the responsible minister for the Environment Protection Act 2017. The development licence is a separate requirement from the planning permit application. My ability to ‘call in’ appeals being reviewed by VCAT as the Minister for Planning does not extend to development licence applications.
In all applications, VCAT will consider the submissions made by the parties and the evidence that is presented to it. VCAT’s decision is final and legally binding on all parties. The decision may only be set aside on appeal to the Supreme Court of Victoria on a point of law.
Hon Sonya Kilkenny MP
Minister for Planning
Related:
> Stop the Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station – Rachel Payne
> LCV MP welcomes EPA decision not to support Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station – Rachel Payne
> Truck traffic from proposed Hampton Park waste transfer station – Rachel Payne
> Hampton Park waste transfer station proposal – Rachel Payne
