Allawuna Landfill Update: What’s Happened and What’s Next

Published on Wednesday, 23 October 2024 at 1:30:01 PM

The Allawuna Landfill proposal has been a source of significant concern for the York community for over a decade. As the process continues, it is important for residents to understand the history and the current status of the project. Below is a detailed update on where things stand.

How It All Started The proposal to develop a landfill at Allawuna Farm, which would accept up to 250,000 tonnes of predominately metropolitan waste annually, has faced consistent opposition from the Shire of York and it’s community due to environmental risks and the impact it could have on local farming and tourism industries.

Recent Developments:

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA):  Appeals Panel Decision

In 2023, the EPA issued a report on the proposal, suggesting the project could proceed subject to a range of conditions being met. As part of the Appeals Process over 82 submissions were received from the public, including one from the Shire. The EPA convened an Appeals Committee to consider the submissions and to report to the Minister for Environment on its Findings. The Minister has recently endorsed the Appeals Committee report with some new and revised conditions. However, this is not the final determination in the process.

The final decision, yet to be made by the Minister for Environment, will weigh the appeals, community concerns, and other implications before determining whether the landfill can proceed from an environmental perspective.

State Administrative Tribunal (SAT)

The Shire is currently preparing for an upcoming SAT Directions Hearings, as part of the Planning legislative framework, where it will either request to be an intervener or submit a formal submission to the proposal.

What the Shire is Doing:

The Shire of York (Council decision ref 120623) remains firmly opposed to the Allawuna Landfill proposal and is committed to ensuring that the final decision reflects the values and concerns of the York community. To strengthen its opposition, the Shire has requested meetings with the Ministers for Emergency Services, Transport, and Environment to explore all possible options to prevent the landfill from proceeding. The Shire is exploring the appointment of Senior Counsel to provide expert legal support during the upcoming SAT proceedings. The Shire continues to work closely with local stakeholders, including the Avon Valley Residents Association (AVRA), to ensure that the York community’s voice is heard.

What You Can Do:

Avon Valley Residents Association (AVRA) The Avon Valley Residents Association (AVRA) has been working tirelessly to represent the community's concerns regarding the Allawuna Landfill project since it was first proposed. To support their efforts or stay updated on the latest developments, residents can connect with AVRA by visiting their website here:

Contact Your Elected Representatives You can also make your voice heard by contacting the Minister for Environment and your local MPs to express your concerns about the Allawuna Landfill proposal. This is a vital step in ensuring that the community’s perspective is considered in the final decision.

Additional Information

016-23 Appeals Committee Report

016-23 Ministers Appeal Determination

Press Release: Mia Davies MLA Seeks Answers on York Tip Decision

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