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Minister Approves Controversial Savanna Clearing, Ignites Environmental Backlash

2/24/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Environment Minister Murray Watt approved clearing of 2,723 hectares of tropical savanna in the Northern Territory for agricultural development by Top End Pastoral Company.
The decision allows the project to proceed without an environmental assessment.
Environmental groups warn the move risks threatened species, including the ghost bat, and say it undermines promises to strengthen nature laws.

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Story summary

Environment Minister Murray Watt approved clearing of 2,723 hectares of tropical savanna in the Northern Territory for agricultural development by Top End Pastoral Company.
The decision allows the project to proceed without an environmental assessment.
Environmental groups warn the move risks threatened species, including the ghost bat, and say it undermines promises to strengthen nature laws.