The Department of Environment and Science has begun public consultations on the establishment of an independent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Queensland
Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said the aim of the consultation was to create a regulator that would provide greater protection for the environment, greater investment certainty and support for economic recovery.
“Queensland is the only State in Australia without an external independent Environmental Protection Agency,” Ms Scanlon said.
“We want to hear from Queenslanders about what they think,” she said.
Ms Scanlon said the consultation would take the form of a survey that was quick and easy, and open to all Queenslanders who had a view on environmental protection.
She said submissions would be used to inform future decisions around a potential independent EPA.
“The Survey has eight questions and takes around five minutes to complete and will close in February 2022,” Ms Scanlon said.
“The Survey and summary form part of a broader program of consultation the Department is conducting between November and March.”
She said targeted consultation activities were also occurring with key Queensland industry, environmental and community stakeholders.
“Research and modelling are under way, investigating best-practice approaches both nationally and internationally,” Ms Scanlon said.
Further information on the proposal, including links to the Survey, can be accessed at this PS News link.
