The Australian Greens have called on the Federal Government to end Woodside’s uncontrolled land clearing at James Price Point over concerns the action is threatening endangered species.

In today’s question time, Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens spokesperson on the Kimberley called the Government to account over new evidence showing the presence of endangered bilbies in the area.

“The Government’s response, that a compliance assessment would be undertaken at the site, is wholly underwhelming,” said Senator Siewert.

“Clearing should be halted until the size and location of the bilby colonies in the area is established and a proper environmental impact assessment has been completed.

“The bilby has been acknowledged as a vulnerable species by both the WA and the Federal Governments. The Kimberley bushland is prime habitat for the species.

“By green-lighting this uncontrolled land clearing, the Government is placing the animals at unnecessary risk.

“This is another red flag for the Government, coming days before an announcement on the Heritage Listing of the West Kimberley region is due.

“On top of the threat to the bilbies, this clearing work is being undertaken before the Federal Government’s Environmental Assessment of the gas hub site has been completed. Unchecked clearing totally undermines this process.

 “I will tomorrow put a motion to the Senate to ask the Environment Minister to put an immediate halt to this land clearing and undertake a proper assessment to be undertaken,” concluded Senator Siewert.