Senate inquiry into Queensland Government

Senator Glen Lazarus

The Australian Senate is inquiring into Certain Aspects of Queensland Government Administration related to Commonwealth Government Affairs.

This Senate inquiry is being done by a Select Committee which has to complete its work and submit a report by 27 March 2015.

Terms of Reference

The inquiry will examine a wide range of issues including:

• the extent to which Queensland State Government policies and practices are consistent with Australia’s obligations under international environmental law
• whether it is appropriate for the Federal Minister for the Environment to delegate his approval powers to the Queensland State Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
• the administration of the Queensland courts and judicial system insofar as it relates to cross vesting arrangements, with particular reference to judicial independence and separation of powers
• the extent to which Queensland State Government policies and practices are consistent with Australia’s obligations under international human rights instruments

Here is a link to the Senate Committee’s full Terms of Reference.

Committee Membership

This Senate Select Committee has five members, all of them senators from Queensland.

They are:

• Senator Glenn Lazarus (Palmer United Party ) who is the Committee Chairman
• Senator the Hon Joseph Ludwig (Australian Labor Party) who is the Deputy Chair
• Senator Chris Ketter (Australian Labor Party)
• Senator the Hon Ian Macdonald (Liberal Party of Australia)
• Senator Larissa Waters (Australian Greens)

Submissions to the Committee

The Senate Committee has invited the public to make submissions. The closing date for submissions is 18 November 2014.

Committee chairman Glenn Lazarus issued a media release on 17 October calling on Queenslanders to take part in the inquiry.

“It is important that anyone or any business that has experienced issues with the Newman led Queensland Government participates in this inquiry,” said Senator Lazarus.

“Simply send your story or experience to the committee. Every submission will be considered.

“Submissions can be made easily via email, post, fax or online.

“People do not need to be fearful of retaliation or intimidation. The inquiry is a safe environment where people can tell their story and put forward their evidence.”

Issues of concern to people in the Redlands

Koala leaving the Toondah Harbour PDA

What issues should be raised in submissions to this Senate inquiry?

The process used by the LNP to promote coastal real estate development at Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek is a major concern. This includes the use of priority development areas to avoid proper community scrutiny of development proposals and environmental impacts on areas protected by Federal environmental law.

Have your say by comment to this post,

or make your own submission to the Senate inquiry by 18 November 2014.