Water utilities have told an inquiry into buffer zones that they are having to spend millions to upgrade or even move sewage treatment plants because of failures to prevent encroachment.
A tribunal has rejected arguments by Hanson Construction Materials that it should be allowed to expand a quarry despite water authority concerns that it poses an unacceptable risk.
Victoria's new environment minister will also be responsible for water, giving her the opportunity to develop new programs by drawing on two multi-million dollar funds.
Victoria's energy efficiency scheme now won't be abolished in the wake of Labor's victory in Saturday's state election, while a promised inquiry could prompt a rethink of the EPA's role in reducing emissions.