An update from David Utting
In July of 2021, councillor Noel Youngman put forward a proposal which would see the use of indoor woodfires banned in Western Australia. Councillors agreed to instruct acting CEO Ed Herne to ban the use of indoor woodfire heating in the City before April 2024.
A city report acknowledged that wood smoke affected both indoor and outdoor air quality but suggested corresponding with the State Government and WALGA on the issue instead. The report confirmed the State Government did not aim to prohibit the use of wood fire heaters but ensured air emissions from heaters and firewood were minimised.
Based on the current regulatory framework, there is no arrangement for the city to restrict the use of wood heaters within the district. The city’s Environmental Health team can only manage smoke emissions associated with using these heaters by providing education (BurnWise program) and the administration of the Local Law.
Noel Youngman stated that a ban would require changes to local law, and that the State Government should come on board. Deputy Mayor Leo McManus has since said he didn’t believe it was within the council’s “legal capacity” to do so.
AHHA representative, David Utting, is applying pressure against wood heater bans in WA. Close analysis suggests that the ban will not be approved, and there is a significant possibility that it will be voted down when it is next before council, early this year. The opposition to the proposal is currently progressing through the council process. The council officers are preparing a report that will go to a later council meeting when a final vote will be taken.
We will continue to connect with our WA members in the affected areas to offer support and aim to provide truthful information to consumers, stakeholders, and the government.
As we have more updates, we will keep you informed.
