The Australian Greens welcome the referral of the Federal Government's controversial bill to establish Australia's national radioactive waste dump to a House of Representatives parliamentary committee.

"This is great news and may ensure real scrutiny is brought to bear on Labor's proposal to dump radioactive waste in Central Australia," said Greens spokesperson on nuclear issues Senator Scott Ludlam.

"Labor abused the Senate oversight process by whitewashing a committee report earlier this year. This represents the first test of the committee system under the new parliament.

Federal Greens MP for Melbourne Adam Bandt, who recommended the referral, said all eyes will now be on this Standing Committee to see if they treat the issue seriously and allow locals a proper hearing by visiting Central Australia.

"Hopefully this will allow a full and frank evaluation of all the evidence, leading to a fresh approach that embraces science, transparency and free, prior and informed consent," Mr Bandt said.

Media Contacts: 
For Senator Scott Ludlam call Fernando de Freitas 0417 174 302 and Adam Bandt call Damien Lawson 0419 253 342

See Australian Greens response to the Government bill and proposed amendments in Senate Inquiry report:
http://www.aph.gov.au/Senate/committee/legcon_ctte/radioactivewaste/index.htm