Federal government accused of watering down proposal to protect Australia’s threatened species and ecosystems
Conservation groups have criticized the Albanese government for weakening proposed national environmental standards meant to protect Australia's threatened species and ecosystems. The revised draft allows developers to meet standards by following processes rather than achieving measurable environmental outcomes. Critics argue the changes undermine efforts to reverse biodiversity loss and fail to deliver on earlier reform promises.
- ▪The draft standard removes requirements for developments to meet specific environmental objectives, instead allowing compliance through adherence to processes or principles.
- ▪The Wilderness Society said the draft is a step backward and contains weak language, loopholes, and no clear red lines to protect nature.
- ▪WWF-Australia noted the latest version is weaker than the initial draft and diverges from Graeme Samuel’s 2020 recommendation for measurable environmental outcomes.
- ▪Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt claimed the draft sets clear and enforceable expectations for protecting significant species and habitats.
- ▪The government plans to finalize the first set of standards by mid-year, with states potentially taking over federal environmental assessments under the new framework.
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An endangered Leadbeater's possum. Conservation groups say the federal government’s proposed laws will do little protect Australia’s threatened fauna, flora and ecosystems. Photograph: Zoos VictoriaView image in fullscreenAn endangered Leadbeater's possum. Conservation groups say the federal government’s proposed laws will do little protect Australia’s threatened fauna, flora and ecosystems. Photograph: Zoos VictoriaAustralian politicsFederal government accused of watering down proposal to protect Australia’s threatened species and ecosystemsWilderness Society says changes undermined intent of national standards intended to reverse decline of plants, animals and ecosystems Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Lisa CoxFri 1 May 2026 20.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian…
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