Continued the debate
Claydon moved that the House debate the order of the day concurrently with six related environment bills. Claydon stated that this was the wish of the House to consider the legislation together.
Bill Debate · Second Reading
Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025; Second Reading
House of Representatives · Tuesday 4 November 2025
Continued from Thursday 30 October 2025.
Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia
At a glance
The debate concerned the second reading of the Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 and six related bills. The opposition opposed the legislation, arguing it was rushed, unworkable for business, and would harm productivity and jobs. The government supported the bill, describing it as necessary reform to fix broken environmental laws and create a modern, accountable system. The opposition called for more time to review the legislation and proposed amendments, while the government urged passage to deliver on election mandates.
Outcome
The opposition did not agree to debate the bills in cognate, so they were considered separately.
Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.
How the debate unfolded
Opposition response
Bell opposed the bill, arguing it was rushed and unworkable for business. Bell claimed the legislation would halt productivity, risk offshore investment, and fail to protect the environment effectively. Bell highlighted concerns about the proposed Environmental Protection Authority, duplication in emissions reporting, and vague definitions of unacceptable impacts. Bell called for more time for stakeholders to review the 1,500-page package and stated the coalition could not support the bill in its current form.
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Laxale supported the bill, describing it as the most significant environmental reform in a generation. Laxale argued that the current laws were broken and that the new legislation would provide certainty for business while protecting the environment. Laxale highlighted the creation of an independent Environmental Protection Australia and the net gain principle as key benefits. Laxale urged all sides to work together to pass the reforms, citing broad consensus from stakeholders and community groups.