EPA Demands Urgent Action from Veolia
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has directed Veolia Environmental Services to take immediate action to address odour issues at its Woodlawn Landfill in Tarago. This directive follows an EPA investigation that highlighted significant problems with the landfill’s gas capture and leachate management systems. These issues have been contributing to persistent and offensive odours affecting the local community.
Stephen Beaman, Executive Director of Operations for the NSW EPA, emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating, “Since mid-March, the Tarago community has been experiencing unacceptable and ongoing odours linked to Veolia’s operation of the landfill.”
Under the terms of the EPA’s prevention notice, Veolia is required to submit an independently prepared action plan to the EPA within eight weeks. This plan must outline specific measures to reduce leachate levels and improve the capture of landfill gas. All corrective measures must commence within four months.
To mitigate the odour impact, Veolia must increase the frequency of landfill leachate level monitoring. The company is tasked with engaging independent experts to conduct regular landfill gas monitoring and hiring a qualified consultant to perform regular inspections of the landfill site. These inspections will include odour surveys on and around the premises.
Weekly progress reports, including monitoring results and photographic evidence of works undertaken, must be submitted to the EPA. This ensures transparency and allows the EPA to track Veolia’s compliance with the prevention notice.
Community members affected by the odours are encouraged to report them to the EPA’s Environment Line by emailing [email protected]. This reporting mechanism helps the EPA monitor the situation and ensure Veolia’s compliance. More information about the regulation of Veolia’s Woodlawn Eco Precinct can be found on the EPA website.
The EPA’s actions highlight the importance of maintaining high environmental standards. Landfill operators must prioritise community impacts and environmental performance. The Tarago community has been urged to stay informed about developments and participate in ongoing discussions about the landfill’s operations.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:34 pm
