NATIONAL PFAS BODY WELCOMED, PFAS INQUIRY SUBMISSIONS INVITED

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has welcomed the announcement of a national coordinating body which will respond to the needs of communities impacted by per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination around Defence bases.

“The announcement follows the Independent Review of land uses around key Defence bases impacted by PFAS contamination, of which the Government has now agreed to 18 of the 19 recommendations,” Mr McCormack said.

“This is what the community expects and deserves — we know Wagga Wagga has its own PFAS complications surrounding RAAF Base Wagga and Blamey Barracks, Kapooka.

“Residents surrounding or affected by contamination at these bases are understandably concerned about the impacts of PFAS and, if this announcement will help allay their concerns and deliver positive outcomes, it can only be welcomed.”

In addition to the Government’s agreement to establish a national coordinating body, the Senate is currently accepting submissions from the public on the regulation and management of PFAS.

“I note the Senate has also appointed a Select Committee on PFAS to inquire into the extent, regulation and management of PFAS,” Mr McCormack said.

“Public submissions to the committee close on 19 December 2024, whilst public hearings are intended to be held in early 2025.

“I highly encourage anybody interested in contributing to the inquiry to do so.

“It is important that these types of inquiries hear the concerns of impacted individuals and communities in order to inform the best possible policy outcomes.

“I will continue to pay close attention to developments surrounding PFAS and advocate for positive solutions to its impacts.”

More information regarding the inquiry can be obtained via Mr McCormack’s office or at https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/PFAS_per_and_polyfluoroalkyl_substances/PFAS