Terms of Reference—Christmas Island Strategic Assessment

I am pleased to announce the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Christmas Island (CI) Strategic Assessment, under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), have been finalised.

I appreciate the input of everyone who prepared submissions and attended consultation meetings during February and March to provide their views. I am confident the final TOR address the issues raised and provide the basis for a Strategic Assessment which will support economic activity and diversity, while preserving the unique flora, fauna and heritage of CI.

The Strategic Assessment will produce two documents:

• A plan for future land uses and development opportunities on CI setting out strategies to manage potential impacts on the environment.
• An environmental assessment report on potential impacts and the effectiveness of proposed conservation measures.

I am pleased to advise that a reference group will be established to provide input into the development of the plan, and details around this have been included in the final TOR. It will be important the reference group represents the diverse interests of the community. I will provide further information in coming weeks.

The final TOR, a summary of public comments, and further information about the Strategic Assessment are available at regional.gov.au/territories/Christmas/strategic-assessment/

I am committed to keeping the community informed and look forward to working with you to progress this important initiative which is in line with the vision and actions outlined in the Our Christmas Island 2030 Strategic Plan to pave the way for fast tracking land release and getting us investor ready.

Natasha Griggs
Administrator Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands