Rogue operators who stockpile dangerous goods such as chemical waste face up to 10 years' jail and fines of millions of dollars after Victoria passed new laws.
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The dangerous goods law was first introduced in August, after a series of illegal toxic dump sites were discovered in Melbourne's northern suburbs a month earlier.
Two fires also sparked at warehouses containing toxic chemicals at West Footscray and Campbellfield.
These revelations brought on legislative change and laws were passed in parliament on Thursday.
"We're cracking down on rogue operators who do the wrong thing and these new laws will make them take their responsibilities seriously," Workplace Safety Minister Jill Hennessy said.
The new laws increase the penalty for recklessly engaging in the manufacture, storage, transport, transfer, sale or use of dangerous goods in a way that places, or may place, people in danger of death.
Corporations found guilty could face fines of more than $6.4 million. Individuals could face fines of up to $297,000 or five years' jail for associated crimes.
"The mishandling of dangerous goods is a threat to our community and those who do it are breaking the law," Ms Hennessy said.
WorkSafe, the government agency tasked with the removal of waste chemicals from 13 sites in Epping, Campbellfield and Craigieburn, have removed over eight million litres of waste so far.
Australian Associated Press
