The EPA provides advice to the Minister for Environment through various reports, as well as releasing statements to the public detailing significant environmental matters.
On 27 November 2009 the Western Australian Government formed a dedicated department to support the EPA, known as the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (OEPA), in order to provide the Authority with greater independence and control of its policies and processes.
They are appointed by the Governor of Western Australia on the recommendation of the Minister for Environment.
[citation needed] The OEPA provides support services such as negotiating with stakeholders and proponents, technical advice regarding the formulation of policies, research and formulation of reports, and monitoring of project implementation.
[citation needed] The Authority operates and has statutory powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and as amended by the Environmental Protection Amendment Bill 2002.