The legislation was first introduced in 2007 in preparation for the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS).  It covers every Australian facility that emits 25,000 tonnes or more of carbon dioxide per year, or which produces or consumes more than 100 terajoules of energy. 

The government introduced the reporting requirements to be prepared for allocation of carbon credits under the CPRS. Even though the CPRS is not in place, firms must start reporting emissions as of the financial year 2008-2009, with the first deadline due next month, PointCarbon reported.

The amended bill aims to simplify the reporting process, but also requires the results of the audited emissions and energy reports to be published in a new official registry. The bill also lays out new application procedures for auditing firms that want official accreditation to undertake audits.