Labor’s Lacklustre Biodiversity Plan
Published 17 July 2024
MEDIA RELEASE
17 July 2024
LABOR’S LACKLUSTRE BIODIVERSITY PLAN
The Opposition has raised concerns over the Minns Labor Government’s plan to address the state of biodiversity in NSW, saying it lacks decisive action and balance.
The former Liberal and Nationals Government tasked Ken Henry AC to conduct a comprehensive review to improve the Biodiversity Conservation Act, but Labor’s response is little more than a shopping list of new reviews.
NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said it will reduce the ability of landowners to manage their own land in the best possible way.
“The proposal put forward by this Minns Labor-Greens alliance government is concerning,” Mr Saunders said.
“No one wants to see the environment destroyed, which is why there are currently restrictions in place for landowners to consult properly with Local Land Services before any large scale changes are made on their properties.
“Under the changes the Coalition brought forward in 2016, we saw a triple bottom line where economic, social and environmental outcomes were all achieved and that balance is crucial.
“Labor talks about working with farming communities on biodiversity, but last year it axed the $200m nature positive farming program which supported landholders to introduce sustainable farming practices.”
Shadow Environment Minister Kellie Sloane accused Labor of procrastinating, following the lacklustre response that was delivered 10 months after the release of the report which called for “urgency”.
“The Government’s response to a comprehensive review is to announce more reviews,” said Ms Sloane.
“Ken Henry himself says the Government’s plans will take “a long time to deliver”.
“This Government talks a big game when it comes to the environment, but in reality at a time when biodiversity is in decline and species extinction is on the increase, it is actually cutting funding for environmental protection in the budget.”
MEDIA:
Candice Giannakos | 0424 983 807
Nick McNamara | 0435 934 252
