SA’s peak environment body has strongly welcomed today’s long-awaited response by Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to the review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity (EPBC) Act.

MEDIA RELEASE 

8 December 2022 

Federal environmental law reform long overdue 

SA’s peak environment body has strongly welcomed today’s long-awaited response by Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to the review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity (EPBC) Act. 

“This is a comprehensive, responsive and detailed suite of reforms – the biggest nature law reform in a generation,” said Conservation SA Chief Executive Craig Wilkins. 

“We’ve been waiting a long time to hear what the Federal Government will do to fix the extinction crisis, and there’s not a moment to lose. 

“The Government’s commitment to end the extinction of species in Australia is a worthy and ambitious goal.  It’s now essential that laws and standards will be delivered through Parliament that will actually deliver on this commitment, and there is enough resourcing to ensure a difference on the ground. 

“Central to the reform process is the need to urgently restore integrity and trust.  Under current national laws, very few projects have been knocked back, despite the environmental damage many have wreaked. 

“Strong national nature laws that protect our nation’s bush, wetlands, rivers and endangered plants and animals are critical.  

“The creation of ambitious and legally enforceable national standards alongside comprehensive regional planning led by active community involvement will make or break this reform package. 

“The establishment of a new national Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is a welcome step to help restore the community’s trust, as the current oversight regime is weak, confusing and opaque. But it needs to be truly independent and a genuine ‘tough cop on the beat.’ 

“There are still some major gaps, including the full recognition of the impact of climate change on our nation’s biodiversity, and the ability of decisions and approvals to be independently challenged by the community. 

“Also, this reform package must be matched by adequate funding to deliver the work of change. 

“Today’s announcement is a welcome shift in the Federal Government’s approach to protecting our nation’s special places, forests, wetlands and waters. There are gaps and risks that could still undermine Minister Plibersek’s clear commitment, but we strongly hope today will provide a much-needed reset in the fight to end Australia’s extinction crisis,” he said. 

RELEASE ENDS