Round Three of Green Army ready to roll out

More than 150 new Green Army projects are set to hit the ground in every state and territory across the country as part of round three of the programme. The new round three projects bring the total number of projects ready to be delivered over the first three years of the programme to 704. We’ve…

Join my 500km Walk for Autism

In July this year, I will embark on a 500km walk around my electorate to increase awareness about autism and raise money for Abacus Learning Centre and Amaze (Autism Victoria). I invite you to walk with me for 1km, a day, or any part of the walk to help me support this cause or to…

Certainty and growth for renewable energy

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE WITH HON IAN MACFARLANE MP, MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY AND SCIENCE The Senate has passed a Renewable Energy Target (RET) that will result in more than 23.5% of Australia’s electricity being derived from renewable sources by 2020. There will be considerable growth in both small and large scale renewable energy by 2020 and…

Green Army hits 300 teams on the ground and counting

The Government has significantly exceeded its first year target of 250 Green Army teams – with more than 300 projects already commenced or completed. Green Army projects are underway in every state and territory with young people working on a range projects that are making a difference to our environment. Local communities and participants continue…

Hyundai Australia joins Clean Air Champions initiative

I am delighted to announce the Hyundai Motor Company Australia as the second Clean Air Champion – and welcome them onboard the Government’s important new environmental initiative. Clean Air Champions are a select group of representatives from industry, community and academia and will be helping to raise awareness and knowledge of air quality issues through…

National Stronger Regions Fund Round Two opens to support local projects

Round Two of the Australian Government’s landmark $1 billion National Stronger Regions Fund is now open. The fund will provide a significant injection for local towns and communities to ensure residents in regional areas have access to top-class facilities. This is about making our regions more attractive places to live, work and enjoy. The Fund…

Passing of Phillip Toyne AO

On behalf of the Commonwealth Government, I acknowledge the passing of Phillip Toyne AO. Phillip was a friend and a mentor, he was a true gentleman and he was both passionate and a highly effective exponent of deep practical conservation. Phillip made a significant contribution to conservation and land management as one of the founders…

Second Review of the Fuel Quality Standards Act

The Australian Government today announced the second independent review of its Fuel Quality Standards Act 2000. I am delighted to appoint Marsden Jacob Associates as the independent reviewer. Marsden Jacob will partner with Pacific Environment/Toxicos for the review. The two firms bring with them a wealth of experience on the assessment of environmental regulation. Fuel…

Queen Victoria Market to be assessed for National Heritage List

The Australian Government is pleased to announce that Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market will be assessed by the Australian Heritage Council for possible inclusion on the National Heritage List. “As a proud Victorian I am delighted to visit the Queen Victoria Market today and announce that his historic site will be included on the Australian Heritage…