Toxic chemical bill launched

By Pip Hinman

MELBOURNE -- Legislation aimed at regulating the chemical industry was launched by independent Senator Janet Powell, WA Greens Senator Christabel Chamarette and Hazardous Materials Action Group spokesperson Colleen Hartland on February 24.

The Toxic Chemicals (Community Right to Know) Bill will require the chemical industry to provide information about the types and uses of chemicals located on sites which affect residential areas as well as other environmentally sensitive places.

“The chemical industry has demonstrated that self-regulation does not work”, Powell said.

“This week's survey released at the Chemical Industry Council Conference in Lorne indicates that a majority of Australians don't trust the industry. Their own Community Right to Know Code is fatally flawed. My bill deals with their crisis of confidence, and the chemical industry should support it. It is aimed at making Australians feel safe in their homes from the dangers of chemical spills and fires.”

“The chemical industry in Victoria deems the community too ignorant to be told what they are doing”, Chamarette commented. “The situation is no better in WA. That is why Janet Powell's national legislation must get through as a matter of urgency.”

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