ET calls on the Federal Government to step up to national responsibilities

Environment Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Peter Skillern said “that today is a day of national action to highlight the abdication and devolution of environmental approval powers to the States”.

Earlier today representatives of national and State based environmental groups met with members of the Federal Government to argue that the proposed amendments to the EPBC Act and reliance on bilateral approval arrangements is detrimental to the environment and makes little economic sense.

“It is time for both the State and Federal Governments to recognise that any environmental assessments under the Environment Protection Biodiversity and Conservation Act 1999 act should be undertaken by the Federal Government solely. Having the State approve environmental assessments is often a conflict of interest as the State is all too frequently the proponent as well” said Mr Skillern. “The community expects that when it comes to matters of national interest that the national Government will use its powers and act accordingly. Allowing States to make environmental assessments of national significance is a clear abdication and in the long term makes no environmental or economic sense” he said

“The recent bilateral agreement that will allow the Tasmanian Government to make the environmental assessment on the mining applications in the Tarkine stands out as an example of the poor outcomes that eventuate from such a policy of devolution of responsibilities. The Tarkine is an internationally recognised rainforest of significant national value which is home to a number of threatened species such as the wedge tailed eagle and the white-bellied sea eagle. Areas such as these should not be held hostage to the self-interested whims of State Governments but rather should be assessed by a national government with national interests as its benchmark.” said Mr Skillern

Environment Tasmania is committed to proper environmental assessments undertaken under the Environment Protection Biodiversity and Conservation Act by the Federal Government. We look forward to a reassessment of the current view that it is acceptable to pass on this vital role to State Governments who often do not have the expertise or the national vision and perspective to adequately make sound decisions.