The EPA’s Role in Managing Contaminated Land in the Hunter Region

This presentation provided an in-depth overview of the Environmental Protection Authority’s regulatory role in managing legacy contamination across the Hunter Region, an area with a significant industrial history. Key challenges and successes were discussed, highlighting case studies such as the former Pasminco smelter at Lake Macquarie, PFAS contamination at Williamtown, and gasworks remediation sites in Newcastle.

Attendees gained insight into the complexities of contamination management, regulatory frameworks, and ongoing environmental protection efforts in the region.

Guest Speaker

Adam Gilligan – Director Regulatory Operations, NSW Environment Protection Authority
Adam brings extensive experience in environmental regulation, having worked in local government and the EPA since 1996. He has led major environmental regulatory programs in the Hunter, including the Dust Stop Mine Program and responses to lead and PFAS contamination. Adam holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science from the University of Newcastle and a Masters in Leadership and Management (Policing) from Charles Sturt University.