ACT Greens MLA Andrew Braddock brought forward a motion proposing an amendment to a disallowable instrument that would have had the effect of further restricting the already tight criteria for tree removal and pruning.  

While he is a strong advocate for protecting and enhancing Canberra’s urban canopy, Thomas did not support the Greens’ motion. Constituents have contacted the office regarding challenges with removing or pruning dangerous trees, and building second dwellings where protected trees prevent that from happening. The existing laws already strictly limit the ability to remove or alter trees to very specific and narrow circumstances, and Thomas argued that the amendment would ultimately increase bureaucratic barriers in an unhelpful, confusing manner. 

The Greens were the only Members to support the motion, which was voted down by the Assembly.