11 February 2008
CHEMICALS REVIEW SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT
Attorney-General Robert McClelland has today welcomed the release of a draft report on the control of chemicals of security concern for public consultation and comment.
The report is the outcome of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Review of Hazardous Materials, which has examined the regulation, reporting and security surrounding the illegal or unauthorised use of chemicals for terrorist purposes.
Mr McClelland said the draft report was an important step towards ensuring dangerous chemicals do not fall into the wrong hands.
“The report proposes a national framework to manage the risks associated with the potential use of various chemicals by terrorists,” Mr McClelland said.
“The national framework is designed to strike the right balance between making Australia a safer place, while not strangling industry, including our hard working farmers, in red-tape.”
Mr McClelland praised the strong cooperation between the States and Territories and the Commonwealth in advancing this initiative.
“Industry representatives have been engaged throughout the development of the report. I encourage industry and members of the general public to actively take part in the consultation process following today’s release of the draft report to ensure we have the best security outcomes.”
The public has until the 4th of April 2008 to review and comment on the draft report. The report will then be finalised for COAG consideration. Consultation sessions are scheduled to take place in all States and Territories to assist the public in providing feedback on the report.
Copies of the draft report can be obtained by registering on the website of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet at www.pmc.gov.au.
Media Contact: Adam Sims, Mr McClelland’s Office, 02 6277 7300 or 0419 480 224.