Have your say on two new National Environmental Standards

The Albanese Government continues to progress its landmark environmental reforms to protect our precious environment and power productivity with two new draft National Environmental Standards released for consultation today. Environment, business and community groups and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to help shape these standards, following initial consultation on two other standards.

National Environmental Standards are a critical part of the Albanese Government’s landmark environmental reforms that will deliver better outcomes for the environment while providing faster and simpler approvals for proponents. Community Engagement Standard will set legally enforceable requirements for engagement with the community when considering a project’s impacts on matters protected under the national environment law including endangered species, habitats and heritage.

Data and Information Standard will establish clearer, more consistent requirements for collecting, managing, using and supplying environment data and information. Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the community engagement standard puts people at the heart of Australia’s new national environment laws. “We know local communities have a great understanding of the natural environment and heritage in their regions,” Minister Watt said.

“That’s why it’s vital their voices are heard in the environmental decision-making process. Data and Information Standard will better protect our natural treasures by ensuring decision makers have access to comprehensive and scientifically sound data and information. “It will also provide for greater up-front clarity for proponents on data and information requirements, supporting faster and more efficient assessments.

“Now is the time to help shape these Standards and ensure strong community engagement and robust data and information play a central role in environmental decision making into the future.” Community Engagement Standard and Data and Information Standard are open for feedback on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s online consultation hub until 11.59PM AEST on Tuesday 7 July.

Consultation on the National Environmental Standard for Matters of National Environmental Significance Environmental Offsets has now closed and the feedback is being considered. 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.