Tuesday, 12 November 2024

 Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (13:00): (1231) My constituency question is to the Minister for Local Government, and I ask: Minister, why has what is being called a contentious waste transfer station that will be operating just 250 metres from homes been approved by administrators of the City of Casey just days before the newly elected council was to be announced? This decision is even more incredible given the EPA in August this year introduced new and tighter guidelines for operating a waste transfer station in Victoria, stating that industry sites that produce odours should be located at least 500 metres from homes. Constituents in my area have already had to deal with issues around Veolia’s management of the site, which operates in the south-east, and were notified of the council’s decision on the eve of a public holiday. On this basis, I welcome all of our new Casey councillors who will be sworn in today and I am looking forward to no longer being under administration in the City of Casey.