EPBC reforms: what project teams should check before 1 December
Australia’s national environmental law reforms are moving into their next stage, with further changes to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) scheduled to take effect on or before 1 December 2026. For proponents, November is an opportunity to check whether approval strategies, specialist scopes and project schedules are ready.
Finding the red flags early
For a major development project, some of the most valuable work can happen before the formal planning process begins.
A preliminary constraints analysis can help proponents understand the environmental, planning, social and physical characteristics of a site before significant time and resources are committed to a project concept.
Renewable project approvals under pressure
Australia needs to deliver renewable energy infrastructure at significant scale and pace. But for the people responsible for getting projects from concept to construction, the approvals pathway is becoming increasingly challenging.
The Clean Energy Council and Lockton’s inaugural Renewable Energy Risk and Insurance Index 2026 provides a clear snapshot of where industry is feeling that pressure.