City of Mount Gambier has taken a formal position opposing proposed powers within the Federal Government's Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025, following a resolution passed at the Council meeting on Tuesday 18 November 2025.
The motion was presented by Councillor Jason Virgo, reflecting Council's strong commitment to protecting community interests and environmental safeguards.
Council is concerned that the Bill proposes powers allowing the Federal Environment Minister to approve projects deemed to be in the national interest, including those involving critical minerals, defence, or national security.
Mayor Lynette Martin said Council believes these powers could significantly reduce transparency and community input.
"While we recognise the importance of national priorities, these proposed changes risk diminishing environmental outcomes and limiting meaningful consultation with local communities and councils," Mayor Martin said.
"Safeguards exist for a reason, and we want to ensure that environmental protections and local voices are not disregarded."
Council's concerns include:
- Potential reduction in transparency and environmental protections,
- Limited community and local government consultation, and
- Lack of consideration for localised environmental and economic impacts, including loss of prime agricultural land and risks to groundwater resources in the Limestone Coast region.
Council authorised Chief Executive Officer Paul Simpson to write to the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee inquiry outlining these concerns within the consultation period.
A copy of the correspondence will also be provided to the Local Government Association of South Australia and the Australian Local Government Association, requesting that they consider advocating on behalf of the sector.
"We are committed to protecting our region's unique environment and ensuring decisions reflect the best interests of our community," Mayor Martin said.
