Submission on changes to the Native Vegetation Act 1991
Our submission emphasises the need for a balanced approach which considers both the conservation of native vegetation and the practical needs of local government, especially in terms of road safety, economic development and community growth.
This follows extensive feedback from councils during the first half of 2024 which highlighted how the current legislative framework has left a range of unresolved issues for the sector.
Our comprehensive submission addresses commentary on the documents released by the Department for Environment and Water for consultation and a range of additional matters of concern.
LGA’s submission forms the next step in our ongoing advocacy and representation to the State Government on this important issue.
Key recommendations
Some of our key recommendations to proposed Native Vegetation Reforms are:
- Improve how the Native Vegetation Act interacts with the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 as recommended by the Expert Panel for the Planning System Implementation Review to address ongoing issues and reflect the current needs and challenges faced by local governments.
This would be best achieved through a holistic review of the Act as previously commenced by unfinished by the Natural Resources Committee of the SA Parliament in 2021. - Revisions are needed to the Act which allow councils to effectively manage timely road network maintenance and renewal activities to enhance road safety across the state.
- Changes are needed to better consider the economic growth implications of native vegetation objectives, particularly in regional settings. More flexible guidelines are needed to support councils so communities can develop, thrive and grow for generations to come.
- We oppose the loss of LGA’s nomination on the Native Vegetation Council which removes local government skills and experience.
- Greater transparency and accountability are needed in how funds collected under the Act are used, ensuring they directly contribute to the management and enhancement of native vegetation.
- Targeted amendments are needed to the current statutory indemnities available to councils and local government employees relating to proposals to change clearance application approval pathways and expand available compliance actions.
We provisionally support the proposal to introduce the option of a new conservation agreement, noting these would have the ability to be term limited.
Next steps
LGA’s submission calls for a more balanced approach which considers the need to preserve South Australia’s native vegetation while also recognising and supporting the practical and economic opportunities in communities.
There is significant importance of collaboration between state government and local government to achieve these objectives.