ACT Government to legislate protection of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment

28 November, 2023
The Australian Capital Territory Government is proposing to amend the territory's Human Rights Act in order to recognise and protect the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. In this note, we explore potential implications of the new bill, where it fits in with the Australian and global context on the right to a healthy environment, and considerations arising for business. Read more

Safeguard Mechanism reforms: New guidelines released on emissions-intensity determination applications and a review for a potential carbon border adjustment underway

29 October, 2023
In October 2023, the Clean Energy Regulator released guidelines to assist responsible emitters and auditors making applications for an emissions-intensity determination. For existing Safeguard Mechanism facilities, this determination will be an important factor in how a facility’s unique baseline will be calculated under the reformed Safeguard Mechanism scheme. Read more

Developers must meet improved sustainability standards in NSW

16 October, 2023
Residential and non-residential development in NSW is subject to more stringent sustainability standards under the new State Environmental Planning Policy (Sustainable Buildings) 2022. This is expected to put sustainability at the forefront of development and contribute to the delivery of a net zero economy in NSW by 2050.   Read more

Queensland legislates for hydrogen injection into gas pipelines

13 October, 2023
The Gas Supply and Other Legislation (Hydrogen Industry Development) Amendment Bill 2023 (Qld) (the Legislation) was passed by Queensland Parliament on 10 October 2023.  The Legislation will commence on a day to be fixed by proclamation. As part of a regulatory review to support the regulation of renewable hydrogen development and use in Queensland, the Legislation will provide a regulatory framework to support the development of Queensland’s renewable hydrogen industry by amending the Gas Supply Act 2003 (Qld) (GS Act) and the Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004 (Qld) (P&G Act). Read more

Is Nuclear Power the solution to Australia’s energy transition?

19 September, 2023
The debate around whether nuclear power should be part of Australia’s future energy mix is again on the federal political agenda. This note looks at the arguments for and against the use of nuclear power in Australia and assesses whether nuclear power is a realistic solution to the requirements of Australia’s energy transition. Read more