The Business Council of Australia welcomes the Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments signing a bilateral agreement to create a single environmental assessment process to reduce duplication in approvals while protecting environmental outcomes.

“Today’s announcement starts to deliver on the pledge given by all governments at this month’s COAG meeting to work towards bilateral agreements that deliver a national one-stop-shop for environmental approvals,” BCA Acting Chief Executive Maria Tarrant said.

“Important momentum has now built up with today’s agreement following a similar bilateral agreement between the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments, and this should continue into 2014 so that the major projects, which are vital for Australia’s prosperity, can be delivered effectively.

“The BCA looks forward to working with the Commonwealth and other state governments through the implementation of the one-stop shop policy by next September, so that all governments can help keep critical investment flowing while protecting our natural heritage,” Ms Tarrant said.

For further information contact:
Scott Thompson, Director, Media and Public Affairs
Business Council of Australia
Telephone (03) 8664 2603 | Mobile 0403 241 128