Guardian Environment
Fears Queenslanders could be forced to pay for mine cleanup as LNP reviews environmental ‘red tape’
Queensland's LNP government is reviewing environmental regulations it describes as "red tape" for mining companies, raising alarm among critics who warn weakened rehabilitation laws could leave taxpayers footing the bill for abandoned mine cleanups. Mining Minister Dale Last has framed the move as an opportunity to position Queensland as a global critical minerals leader. The tension between attracting resources investment and protecting public finances from legacy mining liabilities sits at the heart of the debate.
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Norfolk Island’s unique corals under triple threat from disease, El Niño and now government-approved dredging
Norfolk Island's undescribed coral species — many unknown to science — face simultaneous threats from coral disease, El Niño-driven warming, and a federally approved dredging project in an adjacent shipping channel. Researchers warn the combination could prove catastrophic for ecosystems with no formal scientific record, making any losses permanent and irreversible. The Australian government's approval of the dredging has drawn sharp criticism from scientists who say the corals' ecological and scientific value has been fundamentally underestimated.
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Mass fish deaths feared as Minns government promise to restore Murray-Darling rivers in doubt
The NSW government's plan to restore Murray-Darling river flows is under threat after the federal government rejected a $360 million funding request, raising fears of repeat mass fish deaths in the northern basin. Local graziers warn that towns could run out of water if conditions don't improve, and are calling on state authorities to act with or without federal support. Environment advocates argue NSW must honor its commitment to restore the rivers regardless of the funding impasse.
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