Local Government
RESCUE: Victorian Government gives $3 million to help solve Casey council toxic tip crisis
The Victorian Government is providing $3 million to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) Victoria to help the City of Casey to reduce the risk associated with a gas leak at a former municipal rubbish tip in Cranbourne.
The Government, through the DHS will also provide assistance in the form of temporary accommodation, an immediate emergency grant of $1067 and a temporary accommodation hardship grant for families affected by the gas.
Environment Minister Gavin Jennings said the Government was working with the City of Casey to support the residents of the estate.
“EPA Victoria, in conjunction with the City of Casey, has been closely monitoring this situation and EPA has now advised there is a very real danger to people and property on the Estate.
“The EPA and The City of Casey have requested timely assistance to help reduce the immediate risk.
“I am advised that the there are a number of things that can be done now to assist in managing this situation and the Government is providing a $3 million grant to enable these measures to be implemented as soon as possible.”
These measures include:
· Installing additional monitors to measure gas levels around the estate; and
· Immediate remediation work where necessary to vent gas from residences to prevent the build up of explosive levels of gas, including underground and roof venting.
The City of Casey is developing further remedial plans together with the EPA to attempt to stop further gas escaping from their site into the estate.
Police and Emergency Services Minister Bob Cameron said the CFA was leading the response on the estate, with advice from EPA.
“The CFA is now leading the response to ensure people’s safety which is the most important consideration at this time is the safety and well-being of the residents of the Estate,” Mr Cameron said.
“On expert advice including from the EPA, CFA recommends this approach as the safest option.
“There has been ongoing communication with the residents, including a public meeting last night, and another scheduled for tonight, and the City of Casey and emergency services will continue to keep people informed on this very serious issue.”
Residents should contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200 in the first instance if they require further information.
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that’d be the environment protection authority. the environment protection agency is in the USA