The Federal Government has released the final terms of reference for the Independent Review of the Port of Gladstone.

Federal Environment Minister, Tony Burke, said the review forms a key component of the Government’s response to the 2012 World Heritage Committee’s recommendations for the future management of the Great Barrier Reef.

“The terms of reference set out the scope of work to be undertaken by the review panel, this includes looking at all previous review findings and information used as a basis for the current approvals for development at the Port of Gladstone,” Mr Burke said.

“The review will draw upon a range of scientific and expert information. It will look at current and future planning for development, as well as management, monitoring and reporting programs.

“It will also look at environmental concerns in the area, including the environmental performance of developments and operations and the impacts of other significant threats affecting the Great Barrier Reef.”

The Chair of the Review will provide a final report of the independent reviews findings to the Australian Government by 30 June 2013.

Further information can be found on the review’s website:www.environment.gov.au/gladstonereview