Net Gain

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 as per the policy document: Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – a Framework for Action (the Framework).

The primary goal of the Framework is to achieve a reversal in the decline of the quality and extent of native vegetation across the state – leading to a net gain.

In Victoria, any proposal to remove, destroy or lop 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.

The responsible authority (i.e. local council, State or Commonwealth Government) must consider whether an action has sought to firstly avoid and minimise removal of native vegetation. Only once the first two steps of the Net Gain Approach have been addressed to the fullest extent possible, can appropriate offsets be considered.

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 key aspect of a Net Gain Assessment is the identification and assessment of remnant native vegetation within a defined area using the Habitat Hectares methodology.

NOTE: Net Gain Assessments should be undertaken by suitably qualified and experienced personnel with a current ‘Habitat Hectares Competency Accreditation’ from DSE.

For more information regarding the services Beacon Ecological can provide and Net Gain please click “contact” in the menu above or visit our home page at www.beaconecological.com.au

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