Introduction The purpose of this report is to identify existing Commonwealth law and policy relevant to the regulation of coal mining and unconventional gas exploration and production in Australia. Having identified the regulatory gaps, this report outlines opportunities for law reform in 10 key areas, with an emphasis on ecologically sustainable development (ESD) and decision-making...

This report presents the results of an inquiry into the impacts on health of air quality in Australia, and makes several recommendations.

Background For several decades, the alternative commercial and economic uses and management of Australia’s native forests have generated considerable debate. In the past five years, this debate has sharpened as the native forest sector has contracted in response to increased competition in international and domestic wood product markets. New carbon markets are also emerging that...

This report defines good performance reporting as that which provides sufficient information to reliably, objectively and clearly determine whether public sector agencies are delivering on their objectives effectively, efficiently and in compliance with laws and policies, arguing that the Environment Protection Authority's approach to data specification, data collection and assurance, and report development represents better...

Abstract This report describes the research undertaken to develop national guidelines for climate adaptation planning for arid zone aquatic ecosystems and freshwater biodiversity. The guidelines focus on the protection of habitats and processes that support the persistence of freshwater biota under a changing climate. They support policy development, planning and on-ground actions. The major climate...