Environment Report Author Urges Coalition, Greens to Support Nature Laws
Graeme Samuel, author of a pivotal environment report, has called on the Coalition and the Greens to overcome their objections to the Albanese government’s new nature laws. He emphasized the need for immediate action to address a broken environmental system, as identified in his landmark review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. Samuel’s remarks come as the Labor government prepares for a significant political challenge in passing these long-awaited reforms.
Samuel expressed frustration during an interview with Guardian Australia, stating, “I don’t know what’s going on at the moment. It frustrates me and it makes me a bit angry. What we are talking about here is the future of nature for our children, our grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.” His comments were particularly directed at the Coalition, which previously commissioned the review under former Environment Minister Sussan Ley during the Morrison government.
Political Battle Ahead for New Legislation
Later this week, Environment Minister Murray Watt will introduce the proposed laws to Parliament, facing significant resistance from both the Coalition and the Greens, who have indicated they will not support the legislation in its current form. The opposition has suggested splitting the bill into two parts, prioritizing project fast-tracking while postponing environmental protections. Watt rejected this proposal, stating, “We favour having everything on the table at the same time… to secure benefits to the environment and for business.”
The Business Council of Australia (BCA), which represents major corporations such as Woodside, BHP, and Rio Tinto, echoed Watt’s sentiments. BCA Chief Executive Bran Black emphasized the need for a balanced approach that addresses both environmental and business interests. Samuel questioned the Coalition’s proposal to split the bill, recalling that his review recommended establishing national environmental standards as a foundational step.
“I can’t figure it out,” Samuel remarked, referring to the opposition’s stance. “I don’t know what sort of games people are playing up here.” He also addressed the Greens, urging them to reconsider their refusal to support the legislation, which lacks specific measures to tackle climate change and native forest logging. “Here is an opportunity to have a major reform… don’t let perfect be the enemy of good,” he added.
Reactions from Political Leaders
Larissa Waters, leader of the Greens, dismissed Samuel’s comments, asserting that the party will continue to advocate for nature and oppose forest logging. “I’m sorry Mr. Samuel isn’t happy that people aren’t picking up his report and turning it into gospel,” she stated.
Samuel was present at Parliament House on Monday in his role as chair of an airline industry group, noting that several MPs had reached out to discuss the EPBC reforms. The government is currently sharing the remaining components of the legislation with stakeholders ahead of its introduction. These components include details about the proposed environment protection agency, which were released on Sunday.
Shadow Environment Minister Angie Bell was briefed on the legislation and commented, “At this point in time, this bill is not workable.” Although the BCA criticized Ley’s suggestion to split the bill, Black confirmed that industry stakeholders have several concerns about the legislation, including new definitions for “unacceptable impact” on the environment and the EPA’s authority to issue “stop-work” orders.
As discussions continue, Black indicated that the industry supports a deal between the Coalition and Labor to pass the laws, potentially sidelining the Greens. Watt has ruled out a “climate trigger” but remains open to amendments addressing industry concerns. “What we’re about is passing a bill that is good for the environment and good for business,” he stated, challenging both the Coalition and the Greens to collaborate for effective legislation.
