Reforms proposed to Safeguard Mechanism framework released

    12 January, 2023
    Snapshot On 10 January 2023 the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) released a position paper for consultation detailing proposed reforms to the Safeguard Mechanism. The reforms are directed at achieving Australia’s emissions reductions target of 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, and … Read more

    Independent Review of Australian Carbon Credit Units Released

    10 January, 2023
    The panel appointed by the Australian Government to review the integrity of the Australian Carbon Credit Unit Scheme under the Emissions Reductions Fund has delivered its report. The panel rejected claims about the integrity of ACCUs and concluded the framework of the scheme is “essentially sound” but included 16 recommendations for significant changes be made … Read more

    Auditor General’s report on DMIRS and DWER compliance and enforcement

    23 December, 2022
    On 20 December 2022, the Auditor General tabled in Parliament the Compliance with Mining Environmental Conditions Report. The Report follows an assessment on whether the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) effectively ensured miners compliance with environmental conditions. The Report found that both DMIRS … Read more

    COP15: Nations adopt landmark Global Biodiversity Framework

    21 December, 2022
    The parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity have adopted the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (Framework), which will guide the next decade of global action on biodiversity. The Framework contains some key targets that will impact on government policy, reporting mechanisms and land use practices, which is designed to ensure that biodiversity becomes a consideration in government, corporate and land based decision making. Read more

    Public Consultation open for GO Scheme for hydrogen and renewable energy certification

    16 December, 2022
    The Australian government is consulting with stakeholders on two policy papers drafted for a proposed Guarantee of Origin (GO) Scheme for hydrogen and renewable electricity certification. Consultation on the policy papers closes on 3 February 2023. Snapshot The Guarantee of Origin (GO) Scheme is proposed to measure, track and verify greenhouse gas emissions, initially for … Read more