Labor’s proposed changes to water trigger laws could have ‘centuries-long consequences’, environment groups say

Decisions about coal mining and unconventional gas where water resources are affected could be made by states and territories under proposal

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Environment groups have criticised a proposed change by the Albanese government to national environmental laws, saying it puts “precious water resources at risk” and could have “centuries-long consequences”.

The proposal would allow states and territories to make decisions about coal mining and unconventional gas where water resources are affected. Currently the federal government has the final say on such projects under the so-called “water trigger”.

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