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
