Govt waives levy for Pinery fire victims

Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter said the waste levy would not be applied when waste, as a result of the Pinery fire, was received by a licenced recycling facility.

“Under provisions of the Environment Protection Act 1993, I have authorised the removal of the waste levy for bushfire-affected properties,” he said.

“This is just one of several initiatives by the State Government to provide immediate help to those who have been affected by the Pinery region bushfire in the state’s Mid North.”

Mr Hunter said a significant amount of waste, such as animal carcasses, bricks and concrete, timber, metals and chemicals, was expected, requiring effective support to dispose of.

The EPA and PIRSA are also working to support farmers with on-site burial to avoid transport and associated disposal costs, he said. 

“The waiver of the waste levy is appropriate in these circumstances and will apply to any licenced landfill, including those that are closest to the fire-affected areas at Dublin and Inkerman,” Mr Hunter said.

"The EPA has more information on waste management, disposal of animal carcasses, fire-affected asbestos, disposal of contaminated water and other issues that may arise.

“I encourage affected farmers and residents to contact their insurers before the disposal of waste, stock or water, and they can find more information on waste disposal on the EPA website."

Local farmers and residents can also contact the EPA Hotline for information on bushfire recovery waste disposal.