Overview
- The package is set to clear the Senate on the final sitting day before returning to the lower house for final sign-off.
- Concessions secured by the Greens bring native forestry and high‑risk land clearing under national rules and curb fast‑tracking for coal and gas, with the federal water trigger retained.
- The reforms establish a national EPA, introduce enforceable environmental standards, increase penalties for major breaches, and aim to speed approvals for key projects.
- Labor announced a $300 million Forest Growth Fund to support forestry workers as long‑standing exemptions for regional forestry agreements are removed.
- The Coalition declined to support the bill as industry groups press concerns over the 'unacceptable impact' and 'net gain' tests despite government clarifications and limits on stop‑work orders.