The Australian Greens have declared the federal government's proposed overhaul of national environment laws represents a dangerous step backwards that could accelerate the country's extinction crisis.
"Worse Than the Status Quo"
In a blistering assessment, environment spokesperson Sarah Hanson-Young condemned the planned reforms, stating they would fail to address the climate impacts of major fossil fuel projects while creating new loopholes for developers.
"What's being proposed is worse than the status quo," Senator Hanson-Young asserted. "The government is essentially giving fossil fuel giants a free pass to pollute while pretending to protect nature."
Climate Consequences Overlooked
The core criticism centres on the legislation's apparent failure to properly consider how new coal and gas projects would contribute to climate change and its devastating effects on Australia's unique ecosystems.
Key concerns raised by environmental groups include:
- No requirement to assess climate impacts of fossil fuel developments
- Weakened protections for threatened species
- Increased ministerial discretion that could bypass scientific advice
- Inadequate funding for environmental restoration
Political Battle Lines Drawn
The Greens have positioned themselves as the last line of defence for Australia's environment, vowing to oppose the legislation unless significant amendments are made. This sets the stage for a major parliamentary confrontation.
"We cannot stand by while the government pretends to fix environmental laws while actually making them weaker," Hanson-Young warned. "The climate crisis and extinction crisis are intertwined, and you cannot solve one while ignoring the other."
The debate comes as Australia continues to grapple with its reputation as a global deforestation hotspot and faces increasing international pressure to strengthen environmental protections.
