The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) believes its 550 member companies across Australia will be directly impacted by the Nature Positive legislation if it is implemented.
The Nature Positive Bill proposes to establish a statutory agency to be known as Environment Protection Australia, which would be led by a CEO.
The Australian Government says the bill seeks to amend nine environmental laws to provide the CEO with a range of powers and functions under those laws, as well as amend the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act to confer compliance powers on the bill, introduce protection order and audit powers, and provide for the Minister and Secretary to delegate powers to the CEO of the Nature Positive legislation.
It also proposes to establish the Head of Environment Information Australia as a statutory officer within the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
On Friday last week, AMEC CEO Warren Pearce attended the Senate Inquiry in Canberra, as part of the newly introduced legislation. The AMEC says this was the first public opportunity to provide comment on the introduction of this environmental regulator.
Pearce says the AMEC holds “grave concerns” for duplication, further delays, more red tape and a lack of accountability that will be delivered if the legislation is implemented in its current form.
“The content of the reforms will have severe implications for current and future project developments,” Pearce says.
“The irony of the Nature Positive reforms is that we will be jeopardising our ability to develop the critical minerals projects we need for the energy transition, due to more odious requirements and further delays placed on projects trying to get off the ground.
“These proposed reforms do nothing to improve the long timeframes faced by projects in Australia. And they certainly won’t reduce the cost of doing business. With more barriers and delays put infront of companies, we risk losing the investment that our country needs right now.”
AMEC’s members comprise mineral explorers, emerging miners, producers, and a wide range of businesses working in and for the resources sector.
Its member companies recognise their responsibilities to protect the natural environment. Yet, AMEC says it seeks an approvals process that is efficient, and without duplication.
Pearce says these reforms, in its current state, will cause more harm to Australia’s international competitiveness and the ability to attract investment.
“Ultimately, the impacts of such consequences are felt by all Australians,” he says.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
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