NSW East Coast Severe Weather Event updates

As the lead agency for the Environmental Services Functional Area (EnvSFA), the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) supports emergency management arrangements for the protection of the environment and human health before, during, and after an emergency.

We are working closely with councils across the NSW East Coast to help communities prepare for and undertake waste clean-up in the wake of the disaster.

Affected councils have been advised they will have the NSW waste levy and the requirement for reporting pollution incidents temporarily waived.  

Council waste charges may still apply. Residents and businesses should contact their local council for advice and to find out whether their local waste management centre is still able to accept waste.

More information about the Waste levy waiver.

Safety when handling flood debris

In areas that are expected to be impacted, communities are reminded to avoid waterways and flood waters.

Heavy rain can wash a variety of contaminants, including raw sewage, into local waterways. Avoid consuming, contact with or using flood impacted water for any recreational or agricultural purposes.

Hazardous materials, chemicals and other unidentified items may also be present in waterways and should not be handled.

If you are handling waste and debris, always wear gloves and protective footwear to avoid direct contact with the skin and to protect yourself from injury.

Swimming in waters affected by stormwater can expose swimmers to several dangers, including pathogens which can make you sick, and hidden debris below the surface which you could collide with or become snagged by under the water.

Common sense is advised. If you can see signs of pollution in the water, like discoloured water or debris floating on the surface, do not enter.

See NSW Health for information on maintaining health during and after floods and storms.

Used and unused sandbags

Sandbags that have been in contact with floodwater need to be disposed of. Sturdy gloves should be worn when handling wet sandbags as they can contain chemicals, waste and diseases.

Councils have been advised that sand from emptied, unused sandbags or sand stockpiles may be able to be used for coastal protection works or applied to other land.

Contact your local council to find out how to dispose of your used and unused sandbags.