Department of Environment and Conservation NSW Annual Report 2005-06

Abstract

This report documents the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) NSW post consolidation of several environmental and conservation agencies. The report outlines DEC's implementation of a $439 million City and Country Environment Restoration Program launched in 2005, encompassing initiatives in waste management, urban sustainability, and natural heritage protection. Key achievements included the establishment of two new marine parks, implementation of threatened species reforms, declaration of the state's first wild rivers, and expanded Aboriginal co-management of protected areas. The report details DEC's regulatory activities across pollution control, waste management, and biodiversity conservation, with 113 prosecutions completed and over 8,800 penalty notices issued. Conservation outcomes included adding 420,000 hectares to the reserve system and developing new approaches to private land conservation. The organization managed an annual budget of $502 million and approximately 2,900 staff across multiple divisions. Financial statements indicate effective budget management while achieving major structural reforms. This comprehensive report demonstrates DEC's integrated approach to environmental protection and conservation management in NSW during a period of significant institutional change and expanded environmental initiatives.