Stephen Conroy (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I cannot actually accept the premise of the question. Minister Burke may seek further information and advice before making that decision. A National Heritage listing of the Tarkine would not mean an automatic lockout for development or other activities; rather, it would ensure that the Tarkine's heritage values are given appropriate consideration in statutory decision making. If listed, any future action might have a significant impact on the listed heritage values of the Tarkine and would require approval under the EPBC Act. So, as I said, I cannot accept the premise of the question. More importantly, what Senator Milne is seeking to get me to do is make an announcement on behalf of Minister Burke, which clearly I am not in a position to do. I invite the senator to await Minister Burke's announcements.