Julie-Ann Campbell (Moreton, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This is a very special moment because today we stand on the precipice of passing incredibly important environmental reforms. They are landmark environmental reforms. This is the moment that we will see a creation of the first of its kind in this nation, which is an independent EPA. This is the moment that we will see increased protections for our environment, which is something so inextricably connected to who we are as Australians. This is the moment that we will see the faster approvals for critical infrastructure in housing and renewables that we so desperately need as a nation.

My local community—and indeed your local community, Mr Speaker—on Brisbane's south side houses so many fantastic pieces of natural environment. Toohey Forest, the Archerfield Wetlands and the Oxley Creek are places that deserve protection. To ensure both our natural habitats like this are protected and that business has the clarity it needs, we need to change the law. When it comes to change and reform, certainly that which means something and makes a difference is never easy. What it requires is intestinal fortitude, and what it requires is a lot of heart. I am so proud to be part of the Albanese Labor government, which has both in spades.