The Environment Protection Amendment Act 2018 (Vic) (EP Act), which was set to commence on 1 July 2020 (and overhaul environmental laws in Victoria) will now commence on 1 July 2021 as a part of a suite of emergency measures in response to COVID-19. ...

The most significant impact of the Act is to extend the term of the State Agreement by a further 25 years from 31 December 2034 to 31 December 2059. ...

On 29 March 2020, the Federal Treasurer announced major changes to Australia's foreign investment approval (FIRB) regime to address risks arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. ...

Since 20 March 2020, the ACCC has granted a number of urgent interim authorisations across a range of industries allowing businesses to collaborate in response to COVID-19. ...

The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources released a new fact sheet, 'COVID-19 Fact Sheet: Work-Bid Exploration Permits' which is effective from 20 April 2020 (COVID-19 Fact Sheet). ...

The Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (DIIS) is currently reviewing the policy, regulatory and legislative framework for decommissioning infrastructure in Commonwealth offshore waters under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 (Cth) (OPGGSA). ...

On 24 March 2020, the Productivity Commission released its draft report on resources sector regulation. ...

The Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has released its finalised Greenhouse Gas Emissions Environmental Factor Guideline (GHG Guideline). ...

On 16 April 2020, the Environmental Protection Amendment Bill 2020 (WA) was introduced to the WA Parliament. ...

In November 2019, the COAG Energy Council released Australia's National Hydrogen Strategy. The Strategy provides a framework for leveraging Australia's significant natural resources and experience with resource development to develop a strong domestic hydrogen sector. ...