Wildlife Act 1975
Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (14:05): (407) My question is for the Minister for Environment in the other place. From a media release in February three years ago the government in their own words said that they were undertaking the most comprehensive review of the Wildlife Act since its introduction more than 45 years ago to ensure that it keeps pace with contemporary issues, changes in policy settings and community expectations. An expert panel was assigned, who reported back to the government by the end of 2021. Since then, there has been crickets on the issue. This expert report was never published, and the government never responded. Does the government intend to keep the commitment to modernising the Wildlife Act?
Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (14:05): Thank you, Ms Purcell. I reckon I can get that directly to the Minister for Environment rather than going through the acting minister, and I will take that on board.
Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (14:06): Thanks, Attorney, for referring that on. My supplementary question is: when will the government release the report from the expert panel, or will it just be another process of using taxpayer money and resources for inaction on our native animals?
Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (14:06): Ms Purcell, I will get an update from the minister to respond to your question in relation to the timing or otherwise.