Environmental Crimes

370 The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) ().28 August 2024). Can the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water advise:

1. How many crimes have been reported in 2023-24 via the partnership with CrimeStoppers to report environmental crimes?

2. Has the government pursued any environmental crimes, including criminal charges or penalties, associated with the reports received?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector): The Minister for Climate, Environment and Water has advised:

1. 56 reports were made to the Department for Environment and Water through the Crimestoppers portal in 2023-24.

2. DEW has responded to a number of the reports; conducting site visits, executing search warrants, helping people achieve compliance through education and assistance in obtaining relevant permits where required and undertaking prosecutions. The department has also passed on relevant reports to the RSPCA, EPA and local councils.