Media release
The National Environmental Protection Agency is providing practical support to farmers and landholders with the release of a new guide to help them comply with Australia's national environment laws.
‘Agriculture and the EPBC Act’ sets out how the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), Australia’s main national environmental legislation, applies to common agricultural activities.
The National EPA administers the EPBC Act which protects and manages nationally and internationally important plants, animals, habitats and places.
More than 2300 species and ecological communities are protected under the EPBC Act as scientific information has shown that they are threatened with extinction.
The guide is designed to help farmers comply with the Act, including recent Australian Government reforms that mean that ‘continuous use of the land’ may no longer provide an exemption to compliance. These changes bring agriculture into line with other industries and provide greater protection for threatened species and habitat, including the Great Barrier Reef.
The guide is the first industry guidance released by the recently established National EPA and forms part of the ongoing implementation of environmental law reforms.
National EPA CEO John Bradley said the new agency has an important role in educating and supporting the regulated community to comply with national environment laws.
“Australia’s unique plants and animals are central to our nation’s identity, and fundamental to the health of our environment, community and economy,” Mr Bradley said.
“The guide responds to industry feedback and provides simple, practical guidance about EPBC Act requirements, including when further assessment, advice or approvals may be needed.
“We’ve been out on site with farmers and consulted widely with agriculture peak bodies, industry stakeholders, state-based environmental agencies and environmental researchers to ensure the guide is a valuable resource to landholders across the country.
“It’s important to note most routine farming activities can continue as they always have.
“We recognise Australian farmers are some of our country’s most committed environmental stewards. Maintaining and enhancing biodiversity on-farm supports sustainable production through pest control, soil conservation and improving water quality.
“The guide reinforces the National EPA’s proportionate compliance approach which emphasises working constructively with those seeking to comply.
“Where unlawful or unapproved clearing occurs, our response will be informed by behaviour and environmental harm, with strong enforcement reserved for deliberate breaches causing serious damage.”
The guide complements existing resources, including online guidance material, case studies and stakeholder engagement activities undertaken by the National EPA. Landholders can also call the National EPA and speak to one of our experienced assessment managers on 1800 976 422.