This week's Senate debate on the Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 is a pivotal and critical moment for Australia's future and our precious environment.
The MCA has been engaging constructively with various parties over recent months on amendments so this bill can deliver better outcomes for the environment, communities and the economy.
After five years of extensive debate on reforms to the EPBC Act, a bipartisan approach to these reforms in coming days including sensible compromise by both sides will create the balance required to modernise the EPBC approval process and reforms that stand on their own merits.
This will allow our industry to deliver investment, jobs and regional benefits faster, because when mining can operate responsibly and profitably in balance with environmental protection, all Australians benefit.
This week presents an opportunity to our Parliament to boost Australia's position and reputation as a reliable and globally leading producer of the minerals the world needs through reforms to support better environmental outcomes while safeguarding jobs, investment and Australia's prosperity.
A reform package that achieves the right balance - protecting the environment, building public confidence and enabling timely development of Australia's resource projects - would back in Australia's world-leading minerals sector and be a lasting win for Australia.
Several fundamental changes must be made based on the principles of clarity, certainty and accountability - as well as removing duplication and accrediting the states and territories to assess and approve projects - to ensure the Bill is workable, balanced and effective.
Addressing these key issues will deliver significant net gain for environmental outcomes, productivity and the government's economic and decarbonisation priorities.
Further detail on necessary changes is included in the MCA's statement to the Senate Committee inquiring into these bills.
