Answers to Questions

National Parks and Wildlife

387 The Hon. T.A. FRANKS ().28 August 2024). Can the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water advise:

Has the Department for Environment and Water yet finalised a policy, permit system and other regulatory requirements in order to implement section 68AA of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972?

If not, when will this be completed?

When will the first wombat burrow protection zone be declared?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector): The Minister for Climate, Environment and Water has advised:

The Department for Environment and Water is progressing development of a policy to guide implementation of section 68AA of theNational Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. It is anticipated that consultation on a draft policy will occur during this financial year. Completion of the policy is subject to finalising consultation.

It is anticipated that a wombat burrow protection zone would not be declared until the policy, permit system and other regulatory requirements relating to section 68AA are complete.