Coalition Seeks Amendments Before Backing Labor’s Environmental Law Reforms

The Coalition has outlined a series of changes it wants to see before agreeing to support the Albanese government’s proposed reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act in the Senate next week.

Among the opposition’s demands are clearer definitions of “unacceptable impact” and “net gain”, as well as a review of the size and scope of penalties for breaches. The Coalition also wants streamlined approval pathways reinstated, and changes to the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) so that assessment responsibilities remain with the minister. It has further called for tighter rules around the issuing of stop-work orders.

Environment groups have warned Labor risks alienating its voter base unless strong climate measures are included in the bill, citing a new poll.

The Coalition has identified seven key areas where amendments are required, though sources suggest a longer list of requests has been presented during negotiations.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said a deal in the final sitting week of parliament would only be possible if Labor accepted all of the Coalition’s amendments and rejected demands from the Greens.