Graeme Samuel, author of the landmark 2021 review of Australia's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, has criticised the Coalition and Greens for opposing the Albanese government's proposed nature laws. He urged both parties to set aside grievances and support the reforms, warning that further delays would harm the environment for future generations.
Samuel expressed particular frustration with the Coalition, whose leader Sussan Ley commissioned his review while serving as environment minister. The opposition has proposed splitting the bill into two parts, prioritising project fast-tracking over environmental protections. Samuel said he was 'puzzled' by this stance, given his original review recommended starting with national environmental standards.
The Greens have also refused to back the legislation without specific measures addressing climate change and native forest logging. Samuel urged them not to let 'perfect be the enemy of good', but Greens leader Larissa Waters dismissed his comments, stating the party would always fight for nature and an end to forest logging.
Environment Minister Murray Watt will introduce the bill to parliament this week, facing an uphill battle in the Senate. The Business Council of Australia has backed Labor's approach, rejecting the Coalition's proposal to split the bill. However, industry has raised concerns over new definitions for 'unacceptable impact', EPA stop-work powers, and emissions reporting requirements.
