Environmental law in Australia is a critical and evolving area that addresses the regulation and protection of the environment. This field is governed by a combination of federal, state, and territory legislation, with the principal federal statute being the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). State and territory laws complement federal regulations, covering aspects such as pollution control, waste management, land use, and natural resource conservation.

Key areas of environmental law include the regulation of air and water quality, control of hazardous substances, protection of biodiversity, management of natural resources, and addressing climate change impacts. The EPBC Act, for example, focuses on protecting nationally significant flora, fauna, ecological communities, and heritage places, while also regulating activities that impact these areas.

Recent developments in environmental law reflect increasing concerns about climate change, sustainable development, and environmental justice. There is a growing emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy, and implementing sustainable land and water management practices. Additionally, legal frameworks are being updated to address emerging issues such as plastic pollution, environmental crime, and the rights of Indigenous communities in relation to land and natural resources.