Independent Panel Recommends ‘Nature Positive' Response To Significant Biodiversity Risk In NSW

A statutory independent review of biodiversity laws in NSW has identified the need for more clarity, a proactive approach to address impacts, and a greater focus on impact avoidance and minimisation instead of offsets.

Snapshot

• An independent review panel (Panel) has found that the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (NSW) (BC Act) is not meeting its primary purpose to maintain a healthy, productive and resilient environment, and is never likely to do so.
• The Panel has made a number of recommendations to the NSW Government, including amending the BC Act to:
  • support nature positive outcomes and identify 'no-go areas';
  • require proponents to demonstrate they have taken genuine and demonstrable steps to find like-for-like credits before making payments to the Biodiversity Conservation Fund; and