The government’s process to establish a one-stop-shop for environment approvals has been welcomed by Business Council of Australia Deputy Chief Executive Maria Tarrant.

Ms Tarrant said that the staged, methodical and cooperative framework put forward by Environment Minister Greg Hunt would give business confidence that unnecessary double handling of approvals can be removed.

“Importantly, the process announced by the minister also provides reassurance to the community that this important reform will be done while preserving the highest environmental standards.

“The process will see the Commonwealth and state governments continuing to work on strategic assessments under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, which are critical to reducing red tape while ensuring ecological outcomes.

“Numerous independent and industry reports, including the Productivity Commission’s recent draft report on major project approvals, have emphasised the pressing need for this reform.

“The government is to be commended for progressing this reform in a timely manner within a robust framework.”

Ms Tarrant said the Business Council looked forward to working with the Commonwealth and state governments to help implement this commitment and deliver complementary economic and environmental objectives.

For further information contact:
Scott Thompson, Director, Media and Public Affairs
Business Council of Australia
Telephone (03) 8664 2664 | Mobile 0403 241 128