Office of Environment and Heritage annual report 2016-17

Abstract

This report documents the activities and achievements of the New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) during the 2016-17 fiscal year. Key accomplishments included establishing new biodiversity conservation legislation, developing the NSW Climate Change Policy Framework, and commencing the NSW Koala Strategy. The agency achieved record visitation levels of 52 million visits to NSW national parks, representing a 31% increase since 2014. Significant conservation outcomes were delivered through the $100 million Saving our Species program, with over 240 funded projects protecting threatened species and ecological communities. OEH facilitated the delivery of over 1.35 million megalitres of environmental water and completed major coastal and floodplain management initiatives. The agency also advanced Aboriginal joint management of parks, with 30 agreements now in place, and made progress on heritage protection through new listings and conservation programs. Financial statements show the agency maintained a strong fiscal position while delivering expanded services and infrastructure. The report demonstrates OEH's continuing work to protect and enhance New South Wales' natural and cultural heritage through evidence-based policy, strategic planning, and practical conservation actions delivered in partnership with communities.