7am How Labor struck a deal on environment
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Nov 28, 2025 In this discussion, Paul Bongiorno, a seasoned political journalist known for his insights on Australian federal politics, shares the details behind Labor's groundbreaking environmental law reforms. He breaks down the coalition with the Greens, highlighting key concessions like ending logging exemptions and closing coal loopholes. Paul also reveals how intense negotiations and deadlines shaped the deal. He reflects on the fracturing Coalition's stance and the political significance of this landmark legislation for Australia's future.
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Long-Standing Laws Finally Confronted
- Australia's environmental laws have been broken for years and needed major reform as identified by Professor Graham Samuel's review.
- The EPBC overhaul was urgent and framed as a once-in-term chance to fix systemic failures across environment, business and community.
Greens' Bargain: Forestry, Water And Enforcement
- The Greens secured key concessions: ending long-standing native forestry exemptions, removing fast-track approvals for coal and gas, and stronger EPA powers.
- They also saved the federal water trigger and ensured the federal minister can always step in on decisions.
Streamline Assessments And Use No-Go Zones
- Streamline assessments to give business a single, harmonised scrutiny process agreed with states to avoid years of delays.
- Use regional planning and no-go zones to prevent wasted applications and speed up decision-making.