Environmentally Relevant Activities (ERAs)

An Environmentally Relevant Activity (ERA) is an activity that is required to be approved by either council or state government due to its potential to damage or pollute the environment (air, land, water and noise).

The Department of Environment  and Science and other state government agencies regulate higher risk activities whilst local councils regulate activities with only localised environmental pollution potential.

The Environmental Protection Act 1994 places a general environmental duty on all persons to protect Queensland's environment while allowing for ecologically sustainable development. It also requires council to monitor the standard of operations in devolved ERAs.

For more information about applying for an Environmental Authority, contact council's Health and Regulatory Services team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email council@mackay.qld.gov.au.