Industry bodies have backed an overhaul of environmental laws by the Federal Government aimed at bettering support for businesses.
The reform to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act – announced by Environment Minister Murray Watt – includes more efficient and robust project approvals and greater accountability in environmental decision-making.
“This is not a zero-sum game – we can and are delivering legislation that is better for the environment, and better for business,” Minister Watt said in a statement.
“Every day we delay the passing of these laws we see the environment suffer and we see business and the community suffer.”
Suggested changes have been welcomed by the minerals industry, with the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) describing the move as “vital” for the future of mining.
“This legislation sets the foundation for a system that delivers both the strong environmental protections Australians expect and the certainty that industry needs to invest, explore and create jobs,” AMEC chief executive Warren Pearce said.
“Sorting out EPBC reforms is vital for unlocking Australia’s potential, both environmentally and economically.”
The positive sentiment is echoed by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA), who noted lengthy assessment processes impacting the industry’s productivity.
“Uncertain…processes have a severe impact on Australia’s ability to seize the vast opportunities of a world-class mining sector that underpins our national prosperity,” MCA chief executive officer Tania Constable said.
While the review has received wholesale support from industry, there are some concerns it doesn’t go far enough – with greater clarification needed.
Most notably, concerns have been raised around a range of new legal tests such as “unacceptable impacts” being too broad and inadvertently covering many activities.
Both AMEC and the MCA outlined the necessity for certainty during the review process.
“While industry supports independent compliance and enforcement, the rules that surround new powers must provide certainty and due process,” Constable said.
“While we are supportive overall, clarity is needed to ensure the legislation avoids unnecessary duplication or new layers of red tape,” Pearce said.
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