Changes to directors’ and managers’ liability for environmental offences in NSW

In good news for directors and managers in NSW (Executives), from 11 January 2013 the laws governing the personal liability of Executives for environmental offences by a corporation have changed. The new regime remains highly complex but its practical effect should be that government authorities such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be less likely to prosecute Executives personally for environmental offences committed by their corporations. However personal liability of Executives for environmental offences does remain possible, so Executives should continue to be cautions and diligent in this area. More…