This article examines whether Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) should be the main objective of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (EP&A Act). It discusses the definition and principles of ESD, the objectives of the EP&A Act, and the resulting conflicts. The significance of the principles of ESD, such as the precautionary principle and intergenerational equity, is also explored through case studies. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of considering economic, environmental, social, and equitable considerations in decision-making processes.