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The first independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), commenced on 31 October 2008 and was delivered to the Minister on 30 October 2009.
Summary of the first EPBC Act Review process:
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About the review
The review was undertaken by Dr Allan Hawke, and supported by a panel of experts.
In accordance with section 522A and its terms of reference, the first independent review assessed the operation of the EPBC Act and the extent to which its objects had been achieved.
The review commenced with the release of the terms of reference, a discussion paper identifying the main issues being considered under the review, and a call for public submissions.
Public participation
Stakeholder and community input and involvement were important components of the review.
220 written submissions were received. A Summary of Written Submissions was published in June 2009.
A series of face-to-face consultations with stakeholders were held in each Australian capital city.
Interim report
An Interim Report of the Independent review of the EPBC Act was released for public comment on 29 June 2009. The Interim Report identified the major themes raised in the consultations, but did not make recommendations. An additional 119 written submissions were received.
Final report
The Final Report of the independent review of the EPBC Act was delivered to the Minister on 30 October 2009 and published on 21 December 2009.
Australian Government response
The Australian Government response to the independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) was published on 24 August 2011.