A transdisciplinary RMIT research team developed this policy brief to inform policy stakeholders on Per and Poly-FluoroAlkyl Substances (PFAS) contamination in Victoria and discuss approaches to improve PFAS management across the State.
The policy brief was produced as part of an Enabling Impact Platforms strategic impact grant by Professor Oliver A.H. Jones (School of Science), Professor Matthew Currell (formally School of Engineering, now at Griffith University) and Dr Brian Coffey (School of Global, Urban and Social Sciences), RMIT University, Victoria.
Recommend the creation of a detailed registry of PFAS use in Victoria, with industry users mandated to report what PFAS products they are using, in what amounts, and how they are stored.
It is recommended that a more detailed assessment of PFAS locations and concentrations be undertaken and made publicly available to better understand the volumes of PFAS in Victoria.
Recommended that a detailed review of the literature on the impact of PFAS be undertaken, with a focus on environmentally relevant concentrations and acceptable daily intakes for lifelong exposure.
Suggest that a Victorian PFAS action group be formed involving government, academia, and relevant industry and community stakeholders.
The group should focus on improving PFAS monitoring, advising on new policies, and contributing to developing and implementing a Victoria state action plan to reduce and manage the risks of PFAS to the Victorian population and environment.
To discuss any of the issues raised, please contact Professor Oliver Jones (oliver.jones@rmit.edu.au).
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.