Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Environment and Other Legislation Amendment (Fast Tracking Coal, Gas and Oil Projects) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Monday 14 September 2026

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

At a glance

The debate focused on the second reading of a bill designed to reverse restrictions on fossil fuel development and streamline environmental approvals. The speaker argued that current laws hinder energy security and economic resilience by blocking domestic oil, gas, and coal projects. The proposed legislation aims to remove statutory bans on financing and fast-tracking for these industries across six pieces of legislation. The debate was adjourned after the opening speech, with no final vote recorded in the transcript.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned after the opening speech, with leave granted for the speaker to continue remarks later.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Maria Kovacic (NSW) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Kovacic moved that the bill be read a second time, arguing it would reverse Labor government policies that restricted fossil fuel development. The member claimed current environmental laws created bureaucratic delays that harmed national energy security and economic resilience. Kovacic stated the bill would restore merit-based approval processes and remove bans on government financing for oil, gas, and coal projects. The speaker emphasised that unlocking domestic resources was essential to address fuel supply crises and reduce reliance on imports.