Ms Karen Ciesielski:

I thank Senator Higgins. Something that struck me when the Senator spoke about the potential introduction of LNG as part of the planning Bill was a lack of policy coherence. Sustainable development goals present a useful lens, particularly when we ask ourselves how this Bill, enacted today, will affect the lives of future generations to come far behind us. If it does not enhance the life, well-being or health of our planet, the answer must be "No". When looking at the enactment of policies across the spectrum, the sustainable development goals ensure that legislation and policies are rooted in sustainability and operating within planetary boundaries. Those are self-fulfilling prophecies when policymaking. The planning Bill is an excellent example of that because it also looks to limit the rights of the public to engage properly and authentically and with capacity and timeframes. Those are fundamental to creating a healthy society now and a healthy planet tomorrow. The MPA Bill is also a once-in-a-generation opportunity to get it right. At the moment, just over 9% of our marine is protected. That Bill provides the scope and opportunity to map out a future roadmap of how to sustainably protect our seas in the long term, with 10% of that area strictly protected and a prohibition on extraction or damage to it. Senator O'Reilly spoke about small or micro examples of real conflicts or differences of opinion played out things like cycle lanes. We see them at a much bigger scale concerning wind farms and new developments. It is the importance of social dialogue and constructive engagement with stakeholders. That goes back to public participation.