Environmental health is targeted towards preventing disease and creating health-supportive environments. It includes the aspects of human health that are determined by physical, chemical, biological and social factors in the environment. Environmental health also works to assess and control these factors.
The Department of Health has an important role in protecting the health of Victorians from the potential health effects of environmental hazards. The department does this by:
- raising awareness of environmental hazards in the community
- providing technical guidance and advice
- informing state and national policy.
Local government employs environmental health officers to work directly with communities on environmental health issues. The department works closely with local government to support the environmental health profession.
The Environment Protection Authority is now the Victorian Government contact point for people who have health concerns that are related to pollution and waste. Links are provided to the EPA's where this is relevant.
Reviewed 03 July 2024