Karen Andrews (McPherson, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills) Share this | Hansard source

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Amendment (Authority Governance and Other Matters) Bill 2017 implements a new governance model for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. The bill replaces the full-time chairperson with a part-time chairperson and full-time chief executive officer and establishes one additional part-time member position. It will also strengthen the requirements for appointment and termination of members. The bill also makes minor technical amendments to clarify the relationship between the suite of legislation underpinning the functions of the authority. The bill will strengthen the strategic capability and capacity of the authority to respond to challenges facing the marine park.

The Australian government is committed to protecting the Great Barrier Reef, a World Heritage site, now and for future generations. Effective operation of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is central to this commitment. I commend the bill to the House.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.

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