Released 25/07/2017
From July 2016, ACT Parks and Conservation Services will join with the Environment and Planning Directorate to create a single conservation agency.
“The merge of government functions will strengthen the ACT Government’s ability to deliver good environmental outcomes for our parks and reserves, water catchments, softwood plantations and rural lands.” Minister Gentleman said.
The new single conservation agency within ACT Government will ensure land management resides under the one Minister in as well as align policies and priorities for the agency under the one directorate. As a result, the ACT Government will achieve better integration of biodiversity policy, planning, research and management.
The creation of a single conservation agency in the Environment and Planning Directorate will:
- Enhance implementation of the Nature Conservation Act 2014 which creates the statutory roles of the Conservator of Flora and Flora and the Parks and Conservation Service;
- Strengthen on-ground management of parks and reserves within an environment and catchment management context rather than municipal services; and
- Maintain strong relationships between conservation and the planning of our city, noting the Conservator has a range of significant roles under both the Nature Conservation Act and also the Planning and Development Act.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for ACT Parks and Conservation, not only to work with the unique natural, cultural and recreational features of the Australian Alps national parks region but simultaneously join forces with ACT’s environmental policy.
“It’s a great way for Parks and Conservation to work more closely with aligned colleagues in ACT Government but also manage over 1.6 million hectares of public land across eleven national parks and nature reserves in the ACT, NSW and Victoria that encompass the boundary of the existing Australian Alps national parks.” Minister Gentleman said.
ACT Greens MLA, Shane Rattenbury, welcomed the announcement of the new Single Conservation Agency and the fulfilment of a key item within the ACT Greens-Labor Parliamentary Agreement.
“Having these two important arms of environmental protection within the same agency will ensure better collaboration and communication as well as improved service delivery through the alignment of work and work plans.
“There are a number of areas that will particularly benefit from the integration, such as biosecurity, pest plant and animal management, biodiversity and habitat connectivity and fire management.
“Having an integrated agency will ensure that biodiversity management programs are developed and implemented as effectively and efficiently as possible and it is also expected the merge will lead to substantial savings in time and resources,” said Mr Rattenbury.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases