Should Queensland have an independent Environmental Protection Agency? It’s time for you to have your say
20 January 2022 Authored by: Kathryn O'Hare | Topics: Agribusiness, Construction and infrastructure, Energy and resources, Government services, Planning and environment, Property and planning lawThe Queensland Government has commenced consultation regarding the possible establishment of an independent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Queensland.
Responsible for environmental protection and regulation (a role currently undertaken by the Department of Environment and Science), it is proposed that an independent EPA may improve accountability, efficiency, objectivity and integrity in decision-making. Research is currently being undertaken to investigate the best-practice approaches and models for environmental regulators as against both national and international examples.
The consultation, undertaken by way of a 9-question 5-minute survey, seeks to understand the views and needs of Queenslanders regarding the future of the State’s environmental regulation. In addition, targeted consultation is occurring with key industry, environmental and community stakeholders.
The survey is available here, with consultation closing on 6 February 2022, with a community summary publication available here.
If you have any concerns, or would like some assistance in responding to the community survey, please contact Leanne O’Neill.
