VLPA Update( Issue 31)
Rainy Season Ahead?
Signs of rain to relieve the widespread suffering afforded by the drought are being keenly assessed. Indications from a number of sources are for significant rain in the March period. This would certainly provide a welcome lift in demand for agricultural lime.
If the old adage of ant activity being a forerunner to rain is true, then the signs are good at your correspondent’s premises in Vermont South.
Native Vegetation
The VLPA supported CMPA’s submission to Victorian Government Ministers in December.
In particular we emphasised recommendations for a commitment to an independent review of the methodology for determining offset requirements under the NVMF and Bush Broker scheme; and a commitment to assess, evaluate and address the restrictions to entry and financial burden being placed upon businesses and the wider community due to a lack of site specific knowledge inhibiting development activity.
We are awaiting further developments on this one.
Security Sensitive Chemicals
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is auspicing a review of security sensitive chemicals with the aim of recommending control measures that will minimize the risk of security sensitive chemicals being used for unauthorised purposes, specifically terrorist acts. All chemicals of possible security concern, including industrial and agricultural chemicals are being examined as part of the review.
A discussion paper is available via website www.pmc.gov.au and submissions can be made to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet until 1 March 2007.
The Victorian Government organised a series of consultation sessions in regional areas to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to discuss and provide feedback on the issues.
VLPA Business Manager Peter McCluskey will be attending a session so any members wishing to discuss the results of the sessions can ring Peter for details on 03 9803 2960.
An update on this issue will be provided in the next newsletter.
Further information can be obtained by visiting the VLPA website www.vlpa.asn.au
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