Australia enacts environmental law reforms to enhance accountability and transparency
On 19 June 2026, the Australian Government implemented significant reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, aiming to improve accountability and transparency in environmental decision-making. These changes follow the passage of the Environment Protection Reform Bills by Parliament on 28 November 2025.
Key Components of the Reforms
The reforms introduce several critical elements:
- Establishment of the National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Set to commence on 1 July 2026, the National EPA will function as an independent regulator focused on ensuring compliance with Australia's environmental laws. Its responsibilities include independently reporting on the state of the environment every two years and maintaining environmental economic accounts.
- Enhanced Information Sharing: Effective from 20 February 2026, new arrangements facilitate the sharing of environmental information within the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, between the department and the National EPA, and with other government bodies or third parties when appropriate. These measures aim to reduce duplication and ensure information is used appropriately.
- Expert Advice to Support Decision-Making: The reforms clarify the roles and processes of statutory committees such as the Indigenous Advisory Committee, the Independent Expert Scientific Committee, the Threatened Species Scientific Committee, and the Australian Heritage Council. These committees will provide advice aligned with government priorities, embedding First Nations knowledge in decision-making and improving transparency through published statements of expectations and intent.
Implications for Environmental Governance
These reforms are designed to strengthen the integrity of environmental governance in Australia by ensuring that decisions are made transparently and are informed by expert advice. The establishment of the National EPA is particularly significant, as it provides an independent body dedicated to enforcing environmental laws and reporting on environmental conditions, thereby enhancing public trust and accountability.
By improving information sharing and clarifying the roles of advisory committees, the reforms aim to create a more cohesive and efficient framework for environmental protection. This approach is expected to lead to better environmental outcomes and more effective conservation efforts.
Next Steps
As the National EPA prepares to commence operations on 1 July 2026, the government will continue to consult with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms. Ongoing engagement with communities, industry, and environmental groups will be crucial in refining processes and addressing any challenges that arise during the transition.
These reforms represent a significant step forward in Australia's commitment to environmental protection, aligning the nation's policies with contemporary standards of accountability and transparency.
