Nature Conservation Act 1992
The Nature Conservation Act 1992 (the Act) provides the legislative basis for the conservation of nature through the dedication, declaration and management of protected areas and the protection of native wildlife and its habitat.
As at 30 June 2020, there were 9,791,208ha of State land and Aboriginal freehold land included in 9 national parks (scientific), 275 national parks, 28 national parks (Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal land), 234 conservation parks and 47 resources reserves in Queensland. Dedication of these lands provides a high level of protection for species and the ecosystems upon which they rely within the 13 terrestrial bioregions in the state. Additionally, 4,474,340ha of nature refuges—which are protected areas declared over private land with landowner consent—further adds to the conservation protection of lands across the state.
The Act provides the legislative framework to manage these areas so that their natural and cultural values are protected and conserved while recognising other compatible uses.
Similarly, outside of protected areas, the majority of native plants and animals are protected under the Act, so that they are managed under a legislative framework designed to promote the continuation of viable and sustainable populations in the wild.
Specific tools for managing protected areas, and for managing wildlife outside of protected areas, include park management plans and statements, regulatory notices, protected area permits and other authorities, licences and permits for the taking or use of wildlife, and individual conservation plans or recovery plans for species with particular needs.
More information:
