Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW Annual Report 2006-07

Abstract

This report documents the establishment and first operational period of the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) NSW following its formation in April 2007 through the merger of several environmental and natural resource management agencies. The report outlines DECC's expanded responsibilities including climate change policy, environmental protection, conservation, and cultural heritage management across NSW. Key achievements included developing the state's first comprehensive climate change action plan, acquiring over 154,000 hectares of new conservation reserves, implementing market-based biodiversity conservation schemes, and strengthening Aboriginal co-management of protected areas. The report provides detailed performance data across DECC's regulatory, scientific and land management functions while highlighting challenges in integrating formerly separate agencies. Financial statements indicate expenditure of $677.1 million and revenue of $170.5 million. The report demonstrates DECC's early progress in delivering integrated environmental protection and natural resource management under NSW State Plan priorities, particularly regarding greenhouse gas reduction targets and improved environmental outcomes. This foundational document establishes baseline performance measures for evaluating the effectiveness of consolidating environmental functions within a single agency.