This New South Wales (NSW) Government's response to the independent statutory reviews of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) and the native vegetation provisions of the Local Land Services Act 2013 (LLS Act) highlights the urgent need to address the biodiversity crisis in New South Wales. The government recognizes that nature is in decline and aims to protect, restore, and improve biodiversity, moving beyond merely halting loss to achieving overall ecosystem gains. This ambition aligns with national and international 'nature positive' goals, which focus on repairing and regenerating the environment. Part A is structured against the BC Act review, and Part B against the LLS Act review. The reviews of the BC Act and native vegetation provisions of the LLS Act both emphasised the importance of co-designing biodiversity and land management legislation, policies and programs with Aboriginal people. The document outlines key commitments, including reforming the biodiversity offsets scheme, stopping excessive land clearing, and strengthening environmental protections. It emphasizes the intrinsic relationship between biodiversity and Aboriginal culture, acknowledging the social, economic, and environmental benefits that flow from caring for Country. The government aims to engage the community and stakeholders in these reforms, promoting sustainable practices that enhance agricultural outcomes and environmental health. To ensure accountability and progress, the government supports the establishment of an independent body to conduct regular reviews of nature positive outcomes. The response is structured around several pillars, including a Nature Positive Strategy, spatial tools, development guidelines, species and ecosystem recovery, data-informed decision-making, and leveraging private investment. Overall, the NSW Government's response is a call to action for collective efforts to restore biodiversity, ensuring that current and future generations can thrive in a healthy environment. The document serves as a foundational step in a broader reform process, inviting collaboration from all sectors of the community to achieve these vital goals.
Australia · 2024-07-01