We are delighted that the South Australian Government has recently passed the landmark Biodiversity Act, a key piece of legislation that will protect native flora, fauna, and ecosystems and conserve, restore, and enhance biodiversity.

The new Biodiversity Act is the first Australian environment law in years to be developed from the ground up, consolidating biodiversity protections that were previously spread across multiple legislation. Nature Foundation was involved in providing feedback during its development, and applauds the Department for Environment and Water’s commitment to consultation with a variety of key stakeholders throughout the process. Nature Foundation members also play a vital role in demonstrating their commitment to nature and the environment, which supports our contributions to government policy.

Key highlights from the Act include:
•    Stronger native vegetation laws
•    Tougher penalties for harming wildlife and illegal clearance of native habitat
•    Recognition of Aboriginal South Australians and the role that they play in caring for Country
•    New protections for critical habitats and threatened ecological communities
•    A general duty for all South Australians to protect biodiversity
•    A nationally consistent process to recognise and list threatened species
•    Establishment of four new groups to help administer the Act: the Biodiversity Council, the Clearance Assessment Committee, the Aboriginal Biodiversity Committee, and the Scientific Committee.
While Parliament has passed the Biodiversity Bill, it is awaiting the Governor's assent. Once assented, different parts of the Act will be proclaimed gradually, with complete implementation expected to take around two years. Amendments to other legislation—including the repeal of the Native Vegetation Act 1991—will also come into effect gradually, aligned with the commencement of the corresponding parts of the Biodiversity Act.

With our aim to conserve the natural habitat of South Australia and beyond for future generations, these new laws are a beacon of hope for our native landscapes, their inhabitants, and everyone who uses, enjoys and loves nature. The Nature Foundation, together with the Board, commends the efforts of the South Australian Government and all those involved in the process and looks forward to its rollout and the positive impact it will have on our biodiversity.