Public consultation opens on updated National Environmental Standards

el Review. “In his groundbreaking review, Professor Graeme Samuel described setting new National Environmental Standards as the centrepiece of reformed laws,” Minister Watt said. “The National Environmental Standard for Matters of National Environmental Significance will set clear and enforceable expectations around impacts to our most precious species, habitats and heritage places.

“The Standards will support the National Environmental Protection Agency and proponents to work to a consistent set of rules, speeding up approvals, while also delivering better outcomes for the environment. “That’s why it's so important that we hear from a range of Australians with different experiences and points of view before I finalise this Standard.” The revised Standard is open for feedback until 11:59pm on Friday, 29 May 2026.

Feedback can be provided via the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s online consultation hub. “We are working to finalise the first set of National Environmental Standards mid-this year and will be releasing additional Standards for consultation over coming weeks,” Minister Watt said. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.