Navigating the requirements of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is crucial for approval holders to ensure their projects minimise environmental impact.  A key component of this is the Annual Compliance Report which serves as a record of how a project has adhered to the conditions set out in its approval.

The identification and implementation of mitigation is an essential part of the process of impact assessment and decision-making for projects. Often there are challenges in defining mitigation to be applied in future phases of a project, and there can be a disconnect between project teams involved in the approvals phase, and post-approvals phase of a project. 

Our Principal Assessment and Approvals, Phil Burns, and Environmental Project Manager, Kurt Speirs, discuss the common challenges with implementing project mitigations through examples, and consider how good practice in defining mitigation during the approvals phase may address these challenges. 

This week, the Queensland Government introduced a more rigorous assessment process for wind farm developments, transitioning from a code assessable to impact assessable process. This marks a pivotal shift in the state’s approach to renewable energy projects.

Environmental Project Manager Priya Jolly explains what the changes mean for QLD wind farm projects.

When planning for a major development project, biodiversity impact assessments are a critical step towards a successful application. They help identify potential threats and ensure the right course of action is taken to protect our native species.

In Australia's dynamic landscape of environmental approvals, project due diligence is paramount. With evolving regulations in Commonwealth and State jurisdictions, being informed and proactive is essential for a project’s success.

Our Armidale team has been busy working on the development of an environmental impact assessment for a local quarry that plays a significant role in the supply of material for the growing New England Renewable Energy Zone.