Senator CONROY (Victoria—Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity) (14:18): Coal seam gas extraction is regulated by state governments. The Australian government has a role only in regulating coal seam gas proposals that impact on matters protected by national environmental law. Projects that are likely to have a significant impact on such matters must be assessed and a decision made whether to approve them. The assessment process under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 is rigorous and includes opportunity for public input. Senator Waters: Mr President, I have a point of order. My question was not about how the EPBC Act works, which is something that I am very familiar with; it was about whether the government will respond to valid concerns expressed by its own agencies. The PRESIDENT: The minister is answering the question. The minister has one minute and 22 seconds remaining. Senator CONROY: Three coal seam gas projects in Southern Queensland have been approved under the EPBC Act. These projects are covered by comprehensive and stringent conditions which include requirements for detailed water management and monitoring plans. These plans cover the treatment and management of coal seam gas, water and related waste to ensure no adverse impacts occur.