Critics Slam Proposed NT Project Exemption Powers as ‘Alarming’ and ‘Overreaching

The newly ⁤elected government in the Northern Territory is seeking extensive new powers to bypass environmental⁢ assessments for major projects, a move that has sparked criticism from conservationists⁢ and ⁤Indigenous groups as undemocratic and authoritarian.

A leaked document reveals plans for a Territory Coordinator (TC) who could override government agencies to ⁣fast-track project assessments and approvals, including issuing exemption notices for significant projects.

Additionally, the government aims to identify “projects of‌ significance” that would allow expedited industry⁣ and economic development under the TC’s authority.

Following the election where the Country Liberal party took power, ⁤concerns have been raised about potential exploitation of these powers for gas fracking and large-scale agribusiness projects.

Opposition leader Selena Uibo criticized the‌ lack of‌ transparency in implementing these new powers, while environmental groups condemned them as anti-democratic and profit-driven.

2024-10-25 00:56:55
Article from www.theguardian.com