Albanese's Nature Positive law stands up a federal environment regulator from July
Tranche 2 of the EPBC reforms creates a national EPA as Australia takes a negotiator role at Türkiye's COP31
Summary
The second tranche of Anthony Albanese's Nature Positive environment reforms commences 1 July 2026, standing up a federal environmental regulator. Tranche 1 commenced 20 February 2026; Tranche 2 establishes a national Environment Protection Agency, enables appointment of a head of Environment Information Australia, and adds compliance tools and penalties to the EPBC framework. Climate Minister Chris Bowen takes a "President of Negotiations" role at COP31 (Antalya, Türkiye, 9–20 November 2026) after Australia conceded the host bid to Türkiye in November 2025. The package tests Labor's environmental delivery and its standing with Pacific partners.
By the numbers
- 1 Jul 2026 — Tranche 2 commencement (national EPA).
- 20 Feb 2026 — Tranche 1 commencement.
- 9–20 Nov 2026 — COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye.
Why it matters
A federal environment regulator with real penalties reshapes approvals for mining, housing and energy projects — a core economic-environmental fault line. Australia's surrendered COP host bid leaves it leading negotiations rather than the summit, sharpening scrutiny of whether its climate credibility with Pacific neighbours holds.
What to watch
- The new EPA's first enforcement actions and approval decisions.
- Any third tranche and the fate of the broader reform.
- Australia's negotiator role and Pacific outcomes at COP31.