PM Transcripts

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PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA 24 OCTOBER 1990
In my Statement on the Environment of July 1989, I
foreshadowed an inquiry by the Resource Assessment
Commission ( RAC) into the use of coastal zone resources.
The coastal zone presents some of the most complex
natural resource management issues facing all levels of
government in Australia. Over the next few years our
success or failure in achieving sustainable development
and conservation in the coastal zone will have a major
and lasting impact on the quality of life of present and
future generations.
Because of the range of issues involved, it is not
possible for the RAC to cover them adequately in a single
inquiry. The first reference will therefore deal with
the Building, Tourism and Associated Development aspects
of the use of coastal zone resources. I have written to
the Premiers and Chief Ministers seeking the involvement
of the States and Territories in the development of the
terms of reference for this inquiry. Industry, union and
community groups are also being invited to participate in
the broad-ranging process of consultation, before the
terms of reference are formally settled.
Because of the complexity of the issues, and the need to
take account of work already done, or in hand, over the
next few months officials from my Department and the RAC
will be discussing the proposed terms of reference with
State and Territory representatives and with other
interested organisations. These consultations will
encompass key issues, the information sources, research
needs, timing and other arrangements for the proposed
inquiry. On the basis of that information the Government
will finalise the Terms of Reference and appoint Special
Commissioners. The inquiry is expected to start early
next year.
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