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

Consultation occurred with all current holders of a Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority permit which allows the disposal of dredge material in the marine park; those who have applied for such a permit; ports corporations; some industry groups, including those covering marine tourism and fishing; and technical and community advisory groups. Comments on the proposal have also been received from members of the public as a result of information regarding the consultation being made available on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority public website. The government will take into account all comments before deciding if any charge should be introduced.

Consistent with Australia's National assessment guidelines for dredging 2009, the government's preference is that the disposal of dredge material at sea is considered only when all other disposal alternatives have been exhausted. However, it is recognised that, in some circumstances, the disposal of dredge material in the marine park is the only feasible option. (Time expired)