In the National Interest - Killing the tree planting gimmick

Source In the National Interest - Radio National

No. I haven't taken leave of my senses. There is a need to kill off a recently agreed piece of legislation for forest protection in Australia due to some pretty lax drafting of legislation.

In an effort to encourage the planting of more forests for carbon storage, a piece of legislation has slipped through both houses of parliament without due consideration of its phrasing.

As is stands, a tax incentive can be earned by replacing existing native forests with imported trees that are less effective at the task of carbon capture. I can excuse this part of the problem because the effectiveness report has only just been published.

But what I can't accept is the "other" problem in which transfer of ownership of the property does not carry any obligation to retain the plantation. This is inexcusable. A tax benefit allowed "up front" on an expectation of a 20 year lifespan, can be trashed the very next year by a con artist.

Standby for the rush of less honorable investors if this is allowed to stand.

All is not lost though. The Greens, some Independents, and even at least 1 Liberal, have indicated they want to withdraw the legislation before it is enacted. I certainly hope so, otherwise it brings the supporters of the existing legislation into disrepute.

Addressing Global Warming is going to require some clever ideas applied in a timely manner. Allowing $$$ to be wasted on potential scams like this is not the way forward, and worse, shows a naivety not acceptable from adults. To keep everyone motivated, we need to show the Government is working cleverly and effectively.


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Congratulations to Peter Mares too. This program consistently delivers a deeper level of information for those who take the time to listen.