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Understanding Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Tests (PAHTs)

The Preliminary Aboriginal Heritage Test or PAHT is offered under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 to give more clarity regarding whether a CHMP is mandatory for an activity. Here we answer some common questions put to us by clients.

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Amendments to the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Come Into Effect

Amendments to the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 came into effect on 1 June 2020. Read on to learn about the key changes to be aware of such as updates to conservation and regulation approaches, and some improvements to the Act's relevance for protecting biodiversity.

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Sludge in Victoria: What is it and Why?

Sludge from Victoria's gold mining days covers large sections of the state and can be up to one metre deep. The implications of sludge regarding Aboriginal cultural heritage assessments and land contamination are significant and important for developers and project managers to understand.

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Introduction of the Environment Mitigation Levy

The Environment Mitigation Levy will come into effect from 1 July 2020 and replace the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (BCS) Habitat Compensation Obligation fee system.

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Addition of Clause 52.07 Bushfire Recovery to VPP

An amendment to the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) was made on 11 March 2020 to support rebuilding following bushfire. Clause 52.07 Bushfire Recovery is designed to facilitate construction of new buildings and bushfire recovery works.

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Managing Bushfire Risk and Biodiversity Conservation in Land-use Planning

Finding a better balance between bushfire risk management and biodiversity conservation is becoming more important. One consolidated report that addresses both aspects can provide for better planning, development and environmental outcomes.

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VCAT Red Dot Decision: Biodiversity Value of Large Scattered Trees

In January 2019, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) published its Red Dot decision for McDonald v West Wimmera Shire Council. VCAT overturned a permit granted by Council for the removal of 23 large scattered Grey Box eucalyptus trees.

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Badgingarra Wind Farm Officially Opens

Badgingarra Wind Farm is now in operation. Our team worked closely with Siemens Gamesa to deliver detailed flora surveys, an Environmental Management Plan...

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Steps to Minimise Delays and Unexpected Costs Related to Native Vegetation Clearing Regulations

What you need to about the new native vegetation clearing regulations in Victoria to avoid delays and minimise costs.

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New Endangered Ecological Community Listing for Victoria

There has been a Victorian addition to the list of threatened ecological communities under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

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