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Contaminated Land

Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 (NSW) + ASC NEPM 1999 + SEPP Resilience and Hazards (NSW)

When it triggers

Change to a more sensitive land use (e.g. industrial → residential) OR site listed on the EPA Contaminated Land Register OR known former use likely contaminating (service station, dry cleaner, panel beater).

When it doesn't apply

Greenfield site with no contaminating history + no change to more sensitive use.

Report required

Phase 1 Preliminary Site Investigation → Phase 2 Detailed Site Investigation → RAP + Validation (if remediation needed)

Produced by

Environmental Consultant (CEnvP) + EPA-accredited Site Auditor (NSW)

Indicative cost

A$5,000–80,000

Key output fields

Site history (titles, aerials, EPA records)
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs)
Soil + groundwater + soil-gas sampling results
Analyte results vs NEPM HIL/HSL/EIL
Conceptual site model
Remediation Action Plan (if exceedances)
Validation sampling vs criteria
Section A audit statement (NSW — site auditor)

Design implications

▸Slab thickness + vapour barrier if soil-gas risk
▸Capping in landscaped areas
▸Sub-floor ventilation if VOC risk
▸Restricted excavation depth
▸Imported clean fill for raised planters
▸Long-term Environmental Management Plan

Per-state notes

NSW: Site Auditor Scheme — Section A statement carries weight at Council. SEPP Resilience and Hazards Ch 4 governs change of use.

VIC: EPA Vic Environmental Audit (Industrial / Residential)

QLD: Environmental Management Register / Contaminated Land Register

Notes

Phase 1 ESA is often a CYA exercise for change of use. Phase 2 if Phase 1 flags risk. Remediation can be the single biggest project cost.