The Wire

The Northern Territory government announced on Friday, plans to initiate an independent environmental watchdog, following ongoing calls from lobby groups. The only jurisdiction in the country without an Environmental Protection Authority, contention has been increasing over mine management and increasing industrial development. A recent independent review was scathing of the current management body – the Mines and Energy Department – saying business development and monitoring roles were too closely intertwined. After making some changes, the government appears ready to follow the report’s recommendation of dissolving their role and creating an independent EPA. While plans have been tabled, the impending elections mid year may topple the proposal, with the Country Liberal Party and Industry bodies opposing the plan. Both parties acknowledge the need for an independent watchdog for the environment, but their plans are sketchy. 2SER’s Natalie Staples spoke with Peter Robertson – campaign co-coordinator of the Northern Territory Environment centre, as well as the government and opposition about the likelihood of a territory EPA.