Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Board of Management Functions) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Cook supported the bill as a time-critical measure to ensure continuous management of Commonwealth reserves by traditional owners. Cook explained that under current law, board decision-making authority ceases when a management plan expires, creating a governance vacuum. The bill allows boards to continue making decisions consistent with the expired plan until a new one is approved, preventing delays in urgent matters like fire management or biosecurity threats. Cook emphasised that the amendment strengthens the partnership between the government and Indigenous custodians without altering the role of the Director of National Parks.

Wilson supported the bill as a straightforward administrative rollover that acknowledges the enduring connection of First Nations people to their land. Wilson framed the legislation within a broader moral context of stewardship and custodianship, drawing parallels between Indigenous Dreaming traditions and other cultural frameworks. Wilson argued that while the bill addresses an immediate administrative need, it also presents an opportunity for the government to demonstrate greater leadership on Indigenous issues and reconciliation. Wilson criticised the government for squandering its supermajority and failing to deliver on broader promises, particularly regarding the failed Voice referendum and economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities.

Clutterham supported the bill, highlighting the importance of First Nations knowledge in land management and sustainability. Clutterham described the jointly managed reserves, including Kakadu, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, and Booderee, and noted that traditional owners are actively involved in their protection. Clutterham explained that the bill bridges the gap between expiring management plans and new ones, ensuring that boards can continue to make decisions consistent with the previous plan. Clutterham emphasised that this minor amendment supports the government's commitment to providing traditional owners with greater control and maintains the continuity of governance arrangements.

McCormack supported the non-controversial bill but used the speech to discuss broader environmental and agricultural issues. McCormack highlighted the importance of river systems and the role of farmers as environmentalists, criticising policies that prioritise environmental water over productive use. McCormack expressed concern about potential overreach in environmental regulations, citing examples such as photo permits at Uluru and rock climbing bans in Victoria. McCormack warned against the influence of the Greens in the Senate, suggesting their policies could negatively impact regional Australia and the resources sector. McCormack noted that while the bill itself was acceptable, he was wary of broader EPBC reforms that might hinder economic activity.

French supported the bill as a measure ensuring continuity, respect, and responsibility in the management of jointly held Commonwealth reserves. French argued that without the bill, boards would lose decision-making authority when management plans expire, risking delays in fire management and cultural site protection. French emphasised that the bill allows traditional owners to continue shaping the care of their country without interruption. French drew parallels between the need for continuity in environmental governance and other areas of life, such as healthcare and emergency services, arguing that stewardship should not pause due to administrative gaps.

Ryan supported the bill but criticised the government for not addressing broader EPBC reforms as promised. Ryan argued that the current EPBC Act fails to protect the environment adequately and hinders investment through uncertain and slow assessment processes. Ryan called for the establishment of an independent environmental regulator and the inclusion of air quality standards in the EPBC Act, citing health risks from methane leaks and mining emissions. Ryan highlighted the need for faster, more transparent assessments to support renewable energy projects and protect public health, noting that the current framework is a barrier to timely environmental protection and development.

Watson-Brown moved an amendment calling for stronger cultural heritage protections and free, prior, and informed consent for First Nations communities in EPBC decisions. Watson-Brown criticised the government for failing to deliver on cultural heritage reforms and for allowing the destruction of sacred sites, citing the Juukan Gorge incident. Watson-Brown highlighted the deforestation crisis in Australia and the government's approval of new coal and gas projects, arguing that these actions contradict climate commitments. Watson-Brown called for increased funding for nature protection and stricter regulations on corporate environmental damage, particularly regarding methane leaks and fossil fuel approvals.

Wilson supported the bill as a standalone, time-critical measure to maintain decision-making ability for boards of management after plan expiries. Wilson stated that the government would not support the Greens' amendment, as the bill was unconnected to broader EPBC reforms being progressed separately. Wilson emphasised the government's commitment to advancing environmental and cultural heritage law reforms alongside First Nations stakeholders. Wilson commended the bill for supporting traditional owner participation and ensuring consistency in governance arrangements for Commonwealth reserves.