Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Climate Change

Senate · Monday 3 November 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Senators from the Australian Greens criticised the government's proposed reforms to the EPBC Act, arguing they weakened environmental protections. They contended that the legislation favoured mining and logging industries while failing to adequately address climate change or stop deforestation. The debate highlighted concerns over ministerial discretion and the approval of new fossil fuel projects. No government minister responded during this specific take note debate. The motion was agreed to by the Senate.

Outcome

Question agreed to.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Barbara Pocock (South Australia) (Australian Greens) Greens SA

Pocock argued that the proposed EPBC package represented a regression for environmental and climate protection. Pocock stated that the legislation contained loopholes and increased ministerial discretion that benefited the mining and logging sectors. Pocock noted that the bills failed to require climate impact assessments and allowed for the fast-tracking of coal and gas projects. Pocock asserted that the Greens would not support laws that permitted continued native forest clearing and wildlife neglect.