While there is no set format for a submission, you should aim to present your submission in a way that is both ordered and easy to read. There are some things you must include in your submission.
Your submission must be in writing and clearly state:
the submitter's name and contact details (such as postal address, email or telephone number);
application number the submission is for or what the submission is regarding;
your reasons for making the submission;
whether your submission is in support or in opposition, or if you are just making a neutral submission with information you would like us to consider;
the decision you want the Decision-making Committee to make as a result of your submission (for applications);
whether you wish to speak in support of your submission at any hearing that may be held (for applications); and
whether you want your contact details (eg. your postal address, email address and phone number) to remain confidential.
If you want your contact details kept confidential...
Keeping your contact details confidential still means that your name may appear in discussion documents.
If your submission is regarding a new organism or hazardous substance application, your name may appear in our Evaluation and Review report as a submitter (and parts of your submission may be quoted) but your contact details will not be available to other submitters or the applicant. This means that you will not receive any additional information that is circulated by submitters and the applicant prior to the hearing. However, the additional information will be available for you to view on the day of the hearing.
Guidelines for writing an effective submission
You should clearly explain your reasons for your support or opposition so that your view can be understood and taken into account.
For example, for submissions regarding applications:
be specific about how the proposal affects you and/or the environment and suggest how the effects could be managed, minimised or avoided;
deal with the facts and provide examples where appropriate; and
make sure your concerns or views relate to the application - the Decision-making Committee can only consider the effects associated with the application and not effects or matters that do not relate to the HSNO Act;
refer to the sections or recommendations (page number, heading etc) to which you are responding; and
use short paragraphs with one point per paragraph;
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