Victorians will be able to take polluters to court under huge changes to the state’s aging environment laws.

The Environment Protection Authority's powers will be beefed up by new legislation that will give the watchdog teeth after a series of cases where it has been unable to stop looming environmental disasters.

The maximum fine for a general pollution offence will quadruple to $1.6 million - plus jail time. The package has already drawn the ire of the business lobby.

“You’re opening up a Pandora’s box," says Tim Piper, spokesman for the Australian Industry Group. "There are many overzealous individuals who will take action against companies."