Queensland Launches Health Inquiry into Ipswich Waste Odours

Residents' long-standing complaints about health issues linked to noxious smells from waste facilities will be investigated in a six-month public inquiry.

• The Queensland government has announced a six-month public health inquiry into the impact of odours from waste facilities in Ipswich, led by former Chief Health Officer Dr. John Gerrard.
• Residents have reported health issues such as rashes, migraines, respiratory problems, and nausea, which they believe are caused by smells from the Swanbank and New Chum waste sites.
• Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding and local residents welcomed the inquiry but criticized the delay in addressing the issue, with thousands of complaints lodged since 2018.
• The waste management company Cleanaway was fined $600,000 in November 2024 for odour nuisance offences, highlighting ongoing regulatory challenges in the area.
• The inquiry will include public hearings, expert panels, and community submissions, with findings expected to be released in June 2025.

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