Former Queensland Chief Health Officer John Gerrard will chair a Public Health Inquiry into Ipswich odour issues.
State Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the inquiry would look into the possible health impacts from major odour issues emanating from Swanbank and New Chum Industrial Estate.
Minister Nicholls said the Inquiry followed a recent Department of Environment prosecution against operators.
“Specialist physician and former Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard will chair the Inquiry, with a panel including technical expertise in environmental matters and supported with legal and clinical advice as necessary.”
He said the six-month Inquiry would include public consultation with residents to document their experiences and the impact the odour issues were having on their lives.
“The Inquiry team will prepare a detailed report for the Queensland Government to determine whether odour from nearby waste and composting facilities has impacted the health of residents and what can be done to address the health concerns of affected residents.”
Minister Nicholls said the final report would be released by mid-2025.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the announcement of the inquiry followed more than two years of Council advocating for the investigation.
“For years, Ipswich residents have experienced very real and persistent health issues which they strongly believe are caused by waste odours. This includes rashes, migraines, respiratory issues, chest pains, sore throats and eyes, and nausea,” Mayor Harding said.
“This announcement comes two-and-a-half years on from council’s unanimous resolution calling for an inquiry into the long-term health impacts of waste odours.”
Dr Gerrard said he and an expert panel would have the authority to thoroughly investigate what was happening and to make necessary recommendations.
“This Inquiry will document any health impacts resulting from the waste and composting facilities at Swanbank odours, the impact they’re having on the community, and aims to identify the solutions to present to the government,” Dr Gerrard said.
