Politics Now Why miners want a deal done on new environment laws | Insiders On Background
Nov 21, 2025
Tanya Constable, the Head of the Minerals Council of Australia, dives into the Federal Government's push for new environmental laws aimed at speeding up approvals for critical minerals projects. She emphasizes the need for balance between environmental protection and development, advocating for a stringent national EPA while keeping assessments with accredited states. Tanya also discusses the industry's commitment to net zero by 2050 and the importance of addressing high energy costs. Lastly, she highlights Australia’s strong environmental standards and the potential of a US-Australia critical minerals deal.
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Fixing Broken Environment Laws
- Tanya Constable argues the EPBC reforms aim to speed approvals for critical projects while protecting nature.
- She emphasizes the need for ecological sustainable development as a dual objective of the law.
Demand Balanced Amendments
- Do ensure amendments create balance between faster approvals and strong environmental protections.
- Require clear functions so the law achieves both project delivery and biodiversity outcomes.
Role Limits For A National EPA
- Tanya supports a national EPA as a 'tough cop' focused on compliance and enforcement.
- She opposes the EPA doing both assessments and enforcement if states are accredited to assess projects.