1.1
Labor is committed to reducing unnecessary red tape and we have always
taken a sensible approach to reducing red tape. In Government, Labor abolished
more than 16 000 Acts and legislative instruments. We lowered business costs
by $4 billion each year as part of our Seamless National Economy reforms.
1.2
Regulations play an important role in ensuring the Australian economy,
environment and society remains stable and sustainable. Regulation and
legislation also protect consumers and the community, as well as promoting fair
trade and competition by describing the rights of businesses and business
owners when conflicts arise.
1.3
Environmental regulations exist to make sure development is appropriate
and sustainable while keeping our fragile environment healthy for future
generations. Environment regulation also protects Australia's cultural and
heritage sites. They give business clarity and provide a framework for
decision‑making by government and business.
1.4
The EPBC Act was introduced by the Howard Government and is a well‑established
regulation that has been applied by both Labor and the conservatives. It is
the reason that world heritage properties such as the Great Barrier Reef and
Uluru-Kata Tjuta are protected. It is the reason national heritage sites such
as the Kimberley and Great Ocean Road are protected. The EPBC Act also means
wetlands of international importance are not drained and threatened species
such as Blue Whales, Flatback Turtles and Koalas are protected.
1.5
The Water Trigger in the EPBC Act means that the impact of coal seam gas
development and large coal mining development on Australia's precious water
resources is carefully considered.
1.6
Labor Senators note that the EPBC Act is being reviewed in 2019 as per section
522A of the Act and preliminary work by the Department of the Environment and
Energy has begun. While we disagree with a number of the recommendations in
the Chair's report, this statutory review should consider opportunities to
reduce regulatory burden, including those identified in Recommendations 9, 13,
14 and 15 of the Chair's report.
Senator Murray Watt
Deputy Chair
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