In Victoria, any action that will result in the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation is required to address the three-step approach of Net Gain:
1. Avoid removal of native vegetation,
2. Minimise native vegetation removal, and
3. Offset permitted native vegetation removal.
A Net Gain Assessment details how a proposed action has avoided, minimised and offset native vegetation clearance, resulting in a net gain of the extent and quality of native vegetation across Victoria.
A Net Gain Assessment addresses Victoria’s key policy on native vegetation ‘Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – A Framework for Action’ (the Framework) developed by the State Government and implemented in 2002.
Net Gain Assessments should be undertaken by suitably qualified and experienced ecologists with a current ‘Habitat Hectare Competency Accreditation’ from DSE.
