What role does the community have in environmental decision making?

Access and participation by citizens in decision making is at the heart of modern policy and law making. Typical areas of public participation include strategic planning, community forums, commenting on specific proposals, formal submissions or representations, access to information, appeals and civil enforcement. However the EDO is concerned that many aspects of environmental law and policy do not prioritise public participation rights. 

The EDO will be launching its recent audit of public participation provisions in South Australian legislation which directly and indirectly impact on environmental decision making. The report identifies deficiencies and makes recommendations for law reform. We will also be presenting case studies on two particular areas of regulation namely planning and mining.

Speakers include EDO staff solicitor Melissa Ballantyne, Alison Brookman (Wallmans Solicitor) and Associate Professor Karen Bubna-Litic (University of SA).