An important role of the department is to provide the public and industry with guidance on the practical application of the EPBC Act. One way this is achieved is through the use of referral guidelines.
The department has developed a draft of the EPBC Act referral guidelines for the nationally listed Brigalow Belt reptiles applicable to actions and impacts across the species’ current and historic ranges throughout the Brigalow Belt and surrounding biogeographic regions in Queensland and New South Wales. Much of this vast region has been and continues to be subject to extensive development pressures, a number of which are likely to affect the species. These guidelines are intended to assist you in determining whether your action needs to be referred to the department, and includes:
- survey guidelines
- mitigation measures, and
- guidelines on when to refer.
The key elements of the draft referral guidelines were developed during a workshop in 2010 with:
- scientific experts
- environmental consultants, and
- state and local government officers.
The referral guidelines, and accompanying documents, are now available on the Department’s website atwww.environment.gov.au/epbc/publications/brigalow-belt-reptiles.html. Alternatively, go towww.environment.gov.au and, on the left-hand column, click "EPBC Act", then "Policy statements". The draft guidelines are accessible under the heading Significant impact or referral guidelines for nationally listed species.
We are seeking comments on the draft referral guidelines, particularly in relation to their usability and suggestions for improvement. We would also be interested in any new research or information on the species, including new records. Please pass our invitation to comment on to anyone you feel may have an interest in the guidelines.
Comments can be emailed to speciespolicy@environment.gov.auor faxed to 02 6274 2875 (for attention of Species Information Section). Comments will be accepted until cob Monday 27 June 2011.
