The Albanese government unveiled a new environmental watchdog but delayed indefinitely an overhaul of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, following warnings from the Western Australian Labor government of a backlash in the electorally critical state.

In a move that pleased miners and angered green groups, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek staggered the implementation of the so-called Nature Positive Plan by announcing only the establishment of the promised Environment Protection Agency.