Department of Environment and Conservation NSW Annual Report 2004-05

Abstract

This report documents the first full year of operations (2004-05) of the newly formed Department of Environment and Conservation NSW, which was established in September 2003 through the merger of several environmental and conservation agencies. The report details DEC's implementation of an integrated approach to environment protection, conservation and cultural heritage management across NSW. Key achievements included: development of new threatened species regulations and legislation reforms; expansion of the protected areas system by over 118,000 hectares; implementation of waste reduction and sustainable resource use programs; and strengthened compliance and enforcement activities for environmental protection. The report provides comprehensive coverage of DEC's performance across its four strategic goals: protecting ecological and human health; conserving natural and cultural values; promoting sustainable consumption and resource use; and building an efficient and effective organization. Financial statements indicate DEC managed expenditure of $441.35 million and revenue of $93.67 million. The report demonstrates DEC's progress in establishing itself as an integrated agency while maintaining core environmental protection and conservation functions during a period of significant organizational change. This inaugural comprehensive annual report establishes baseline data for measuring the agency's future performance in delivering integrated environmental and conservation outcomes for NSW.