Nick McKim (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I, and also on behalf of Senator Whish-Wilson, move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that:

  (i) Tasmania's unique environment is under threat from inappropriate development, and the failure to protect natural and cultural values,

  (ii) rapid and unfettered expansion of fish farms is privatising public waters and damaging Tasmania's marine environment and coastal lifestyle,

  (iii) private sector development in Tasmania's iconic national parks and world heritage areas is continuing,

  (iv) the Swift Parrot is facing extinction due to ongoing deforestation of its habitat by logging, and

  (v) Tasmanian Aboriginal heritage is being damaged by four wheel drive tracks in the Tarkine area; and

(b) condemns the Federal and Tasmanian Liberal Governments for failing to stand up for Tasmania's unique natural environment, their lack of support for a Tarkine national park, and complete inaction on climate change.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

James McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The coalition government strongly supports sustainable development, tourism, and food and fibre production in Tasmania. While most planning and development processes are a matter for the state government, the federal government ensures rigorous assessment of potential impacts to matters of national environmental significance under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. Australia is among more than 170 countries that have ratified the Paris agreement on climate change. Australia's 2030 target to reduce emissions by 26 to 28 per cent below 2005 levels is comparable with other advanced economies and will halve our per capita emissions.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The question is that general business motion No. 722 moved by Senator McKim be agreed to.