Australia is one of the world's seventeen centres of 'mega-diversity' of plants and animals. The south west of Western Australia is known as one of the world's thirty four biodiversity "hotspots" with some of the richest and most threatened reservoirs of plant and animal life on earth. In some areas of the state, such as the Avon-Wheatbelt bioregion, ninety three percent of native vegetation has already been cleared. Clearing and consequential salinity are having a devastating effect on biodiversity through the direct loss of plant species, and the associated loss of mammals, birds and other animals which depend upon areas of bush for food and shelter.

Legislation proclaimed on 8 July 2004 protects all native vegetation in Western Australia. Clearing native vegetation is prohibited, unless a clearing permit is granted by the Department of Environment and Conservation, or the clearing is for an exempt purpose. These exemptions ensure that low impact day to day activities involving clearing can be undertaken. People who wish to clear are required to submit an application if an exemption does not apply. This will be assessed against principles which consider biodiversity, land degradation and water quality.

Our role

The Department of Environment and Conservation is responsible for administering the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and Regulations that protect native vegetation. Applications for Clearing Permits are assessed by the department and decisions are made to approve or reject the proposal in line with the Act.

The department also participates in programs that assist landowners in protecting and managing native vegetation on their land.

Further information