Environment and resources disputes

VCAT hears and determines disputes about the use and development of natural resources. This includes licences to take and use water or works licences to construct a bore or dam. It also includes extractive industry work plans and work authorities. 

VCAT hears and determines disputes about licenses, permits, registrations, authorisations, notices, Better Environment Plans, financial assurances and site management orders issued under the Environment Protection Act 2017. We also determine disputes about environmental audits and environmental auditors appointments.

VCAT has the power to make declarations in specific circumstances, under some environment and resource management laws. Declaration applications are made to resolve disputes about the interpretation of legislation or, in some cases, resolve an application for a permission or authorisation.

VCAT has the power to make enforcement orders in specific circumstances under some environment and resource management laws. 

Some environment and resource management laws provide an opportunity to apply for a review of a decision made by a government organisation.