The National Environmental Management Act, through the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations requires that activities which are deemed to have significant impacts on the environment be subjected to an impact assessment process. This process provides that the applicant willl have to carry out a study or studies where such infrastructure will be developed, to ascertain the types of impacts that such a development will have on the immediate environment and the biodiversity. These studies and the proposed mitigation measures are considered in deciding whether or not such developments can be allowed.
The roll out of 5G related infrustructure will therefore be site-specific and, as such, geographical context will inform the nature and extent of the impact required assessment. With respect to electromagnetic radiation, the Department takes guidance from the Department of Health, who have a dedicated unit that is mandated to consider the health effects of electromagnetic radiation.
Regards
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES
DATE: