Final Report 1 July 2008 – 26 March 2009
Environmental Protection Agency 17 July 2009
The Honourable Kate Jones MP Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Level 17, 160 Ann Street Brisbane Qld 4000
Dear Minister,
I am pleased to present the Final Report for the Environmental Protection Agency for the period 1 July 2008 to 26 March 2009.
The functions of the former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were transferred to the new Department of Environment and Resource Management on 26 March 2009. The final report outlines the activities and achievements of the former EPA for that final period.
I certify that this Final Report complies with: • the prescribed requirements of the Financial Accountability and Audit Act 1977 and the Financial Management Standard 1997, and • the detailed requirements set out in the Annual Reporting Guidelines for Queensland Government Agencies.
A checklist outlining the annual reporting requirements can be found within this report.
Yours sincerely
Terry Wall Director-General Environmental Protection Agency
Cover photographs (left to right) Bushwalkers, Great Walks — Carnarvon Gorge (Adam Creed, EPA) EPA Officers — (Adam Creed, EPA) ClimateSmart Living — (Briony Masters, EPA) Table of Contents
The Agency’s achievements The Agency Director-General’s Message.
TheOffice of Organisational structure. Regional office locations Locations . Overview
The divisions profiled . Strategic Plan 2008-12. Outputs andgoals from the Governance. Performance andCapability Strategy andPolicy Sustainability Innovation. Sustainable Communities Environmental Services Performance andCapability Queensland Parks and Wildlife. Management Committee Audit andRisk Internal Audit EPA Board. frameworkreporting Strategic planning and Sustainable Futures Environmental Services Conservation and ...... Climate Change...... 12 20 10 12 10 10 10 13 19 14 21 13 15 17 11 6 2 6 9 9 9 9 7 7
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Efficient
Legislation andadministration. Workforce sustainability report sustainability report Environmental Water management Carbon neutrality andenergy waste management Resource consumption and Marine Parks Act 2004. Other administration information. Equal employment opportunities Workforce statistics Carbon emissions. reporting Nature Conservation Act 1992. Environmental Protection Act 1994. Acts andlegislation. Corporate Sustainability Environmental Sciences Sponsorships Community engagement Publications Recordkeeping. Shared Service Initiative. Freedom of information. Privacy Energy Carbon neutrality transport ...... 34 ...... 34 ...... 30 24 34 28 26 26 26 26 26 30 22 24 24 32 32 23 27 27 25 25 33 33 35 35
| FINAL REPORT
Certified Financial
Contact us Finances measures 2008-09. Output performance Appendices Compliance checklist Glossary of terms Overseas travel Performance andCapability Boards andcommittees Consultancy expenditure. Sustainable futures Statutory Authorities Financial Summary Environmental Services Conservation and
Recognising ourstaff Workplace health andsafety Act 1994. Whistleblowers Protection and Code of Conduct Public Sector Ethics Act Retrenchments Voluntary early retirement Flexible work practices Women’s initiatives | ......
1 JULY2008 –26MARCH 2009 ......
Statements ...... 80 38 85 42 80 82 40 46 36 36 36 36 36 39 42 44 44 83 37 35 35 81 41
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 2
I am proud to present the final report of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the period 1 July 2008 to 26 March 2009.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the EPA’s creation as an entity within the Queensland Government. Over the last 10 years, the EPA has been at the forefront of environmental management in Queensland.
With a mission focused on sustainable use of the valuable natural resources that underpin our economic growth and stability, the EPA pioneered an approach based on both regulation and facilitation to help build newer, smarter, sustainable industries and communities while preserving our natural and cultural heritage.
Following the state election on 26 March 2009, Premier Anna Bligh announced the largest reforms to the Queensland Public Service in 20 years in which 23 State Government departments were merged into 13. As a function of these changes, the EPA and the Department of Natural Resources and Water were merged to form the Department of Environment and Resource Management, marking the beginning of an exciting new phase of environmental management in Queensland.
Director-General’s report 3 During the final reporting period, »» received unprecedented response to a site near St George in south- the EPA: to calls for expressions of interest west Queensland. »» launched ecoFund in January 2009 for NatureAssist Round Three, »» released 10 bilbies bred at as a stand-alone business unit to with 173 applications received. Charleville EPA into an enclosure take financial contributions to NatureAssist is a competitive at Currawinya National Park, the offset the unavoidable environment incentive scheme that provides third and largest release of bilbies impacts of development activities. landholders the opportunity to to the park. Previously released Contributions to ecoFund will tender for financial assistance animals are successfully breeding DIRECTOR-GENERAL’S REPORT DIRECTOR-GENERAL’S enable developers to meet to protect and actively manage at the site. conservation values of their regulatory environmental offset »» completed the Estuarine Crocodile property. In return, landholders requirements and these investments Management Manual. To ensure the commit to maintaining and will then be carefully matched to safeguard of public safety, QPW’s improving conservation values initiatives that protect Queensland’s crocodile management plans, by signing a perpetual nature rich environmental assets. policies and procedures have been refuge agreement. »» continued additions to the national subject to internal and independent park estate arising from the South »» led the Centenary of Parks external review. The result is a East Queensland and Wet Tropics celebrations. The celebrations collated and coordinated ‘one-stop’ Forestry Agreements. Between were launched at Witches’ Falls, Estuarine Crocodile Management 1 July 2008 and 26 March 2009, Tamborine National Park on Manual containing revised policies, more than 290 000 hectares was 28 March 2008 and were attended delegations, guidelines and declared as national park. by Premier Anna Bligh, who took procedures to prescribe and guide the opportunity to announce that »» commenced the 10-year the QPW’s management of the national parks estate would be Moreton Bay Marine Park estuarine crocodiles. increased by 50 per cent to Zoning Plan on 1 March 2009. »» published the first comprehensive 12 million hectares by 2020. Under the new zoning plan, collation of biological data for all The celebrations culminated in 16 per cent of Moreton Bay marine turtle species in Australia: the Australian Protected Areas Marine Park is protected by marine A biological review of Australian Congress in November 2008. national park (green) zones—a marine turtles. Production of this Hosted by the QPW division of substantial increase on the previous report was partly funded by the the EPA, APAC 2008 was an half a per cent. Australian Department of outstanding success bringing »» increased gazetted Nature Refuges Environment and Heritage and together more than 300 leaders and to 730 961 hectares (at 26 March the content was peer reviewed experts in protected area 2009) by negotiating conservation prior to publication. management and research from agreements for privately managed »» introduced an enhanced Europe, Australia and the Asia- lands of significant value through Environmentally Relevant Activity Pacific region. the Nature Refuge, NatureAssist regulatory regime. In January »» launched the $10 million Ma:Mu and Environmental Partnerships 2009, the regulatory fee structure Rainforest Canopy Walkway in the Scheme programs. for Environmentally Relevant Wooroonooran National Park. »» implemented tenure resolution in Activities was amended to a The tree-top walkway, the largest accordance with the Queensland fee-to-risk basis. Under the revised project ever undertaken in a Government’s Cape York Peninsula fee structure, those operators who Queensland national park, features Heritage Act 2007. In 2008, the met criteria that demonstrated a 2.2 kilometre forest walking track historic gazettal took place of the implementation of best practice that links a 40 metre high, first two national parks (CYPAL— environmental behaviours and 340 metre long elevated walkway Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal management systems, and could through the canopy with a 37 Land): Lama Lama National Park demonstrate a reduction in metre high observation tower. (CYPAL) and KULLA National Park emissions, were eligible for a »» finalised agreement with mining (CYPAL). These parks have an discount to their annual licence fee. company Xstrata for a $3 million underlying tenure of Aboriginal sponsorship to support the freehold and will be managed reintroduction of the endangered jointly with the traditional owners northern hairy-nosed wombat of the land.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 4 »» played a key role in the »» committed $29.25 million in in energy costs over the life of containment and recovery from funding to support new climate the bulbs. the Moreton Bay Oil Spill incident. change initiatives from the – Queensland Solar Homes The department’s Critical Incident Queensland Climate Change Fund. Program allocated 1000 grid- Response unit provided specialist These initiatives included: connected solar power systems technical, scientific and – ClimateSmart Home Service that to Queensland households. environmental support and advice commenced on 5 January 2009. to clean-up crews, aiding the This two-year program is an »» implemented actions from the protection and rapid recovery of Australian first, which will ClimateSmart Adaptation 2007–12 environmental values. Many staff deliver improved water and action plan, a five-year plan for from across the department energy efficiency in households preparing communities and contributed to the ‘on-the-ground’ across Queensland by installing industry across Queensland for the clean-up operation, as well as energy saving devices, providing physical impacts of climate change. providing administrative support to customers with behaviour- The plan includes 62 actions the operation. EPA officers also change tools, and offering focussing on water planning and played significant roles in the detailed advice on ways to services; agriculture; human recovery and rehabilitation of reduce water and energy use. settlements; natural environment wildlife impacted by the oil. In the first quarter, more than and landscapes; emergency services »» implemented the Public Place 11 000 services had been and human health; tourism, Recycling program—Environmental delivered, with a total of almost business and industry; and finance Services division has been a 30 000 bookings made. and insurance. At the end of champion of the Public Place The delivery of 70 000 services March 2009, 32 actions have been Recycling project, partnering with has been contracted for the first completed or integrated into core 19 organisations to implement year, with a total of up to business, and the remaining 30 permanent recycling facilities in 260 000 services contracted to have commenced and are key public areas such as shopping be delivered to Queensland progressing. households over the life of centres and sporting stadia. In »» launched the ClimateSmart the program. addition, temporary recycling Business program, designed to facilities have been used at more – Australia’s biggest ‘green’ assist small business reduce costs than 40 major events, such as giveaway, the $3.5 million while achieving improved Riverfire and New Year’s Eve Big Light Switch campaign, environmental outcomes. As part celebrations. Five councils have which saw one million energy of the program, the EPA called for adopted continued use of these efficient compact fluorescent ClimateSmart business leaders to facilities at local events. A further lamps (CFLs) given away to lead groups of up to 20 businesses 11 systems are expected to be Queenslanders free of charge. and provide expertise and implemented in 2009–10 including Queenslanders will save up to networking opportunities to a number of major shopping 750 000 tonnes of CO emissions 2 develop and implement centres across Queensland. and approximately $115 million sustainability action plans.
Director-General’s report 5 »» introduced the Queensland Government Environmental Offsets Policy on 1 July 2008—providing overarching principles and THE AGENCY THE processes for the use of offsets in Queensland. The policy ensures that proposed development avoids environmental harm where possible, but where this is not possible, that environmental harm is minimised to the greatest extent. »» coordinated the whole-of- government response to the Queensland’s Vulnerability to Rising Oil Prices Taskforce report by producing an information paper for public consultation. »» At 26 March 2009, the EPA was on target to achieve Carbon Neutrality by the close of the financial year.
The future
When you look back on these and many other of the EPA’s achievements, it is clear that the work of the EPA has positioned Queensland well to deal with the twin key challenges of increased urbanisation and climate change.
These achievements have only been made possible with the hard work and enthusiasm of the EPA staff and I would like to place on record my thanks for their excellent contribution.
Terry Wall Director-General Environmental Protection Agency
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 6
Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had its origins in the Department of Environment, Conservation and Tourism, established by the Queensland Government in December 1987. This department amalgamated 10 spheres of Queensland Government activity including water quality, air pollution, noise abatement, national parks and wildlife, and Fraser Island recreation. These actions reflected the community’s growing interest and involvement in the environment, conservation and recreation.
Throughout the following decade the department’s name changed several times and more responsibilities were added. The department gradually gained responsibility for certain heritage functions, approval of coastal structures and beach protection activities, canals, Newstead House, the Wet Tropics Management Authority, the Queensland Herbarium, contaminated sites activities, and waste management.
Following the change of government at the 1998 general election, the Environmental Protection Agency was established on 10 December 1998, under the Public Service Act 1996 to work with the Queensland community to achieve a healthy and sustainable environment as a foundation for economic and social security. The Agency gained more responsibilities over the years, such as the environmental regulation of mining, the Office of Sustainable Energy, the Water Recycling Strategy, the Regional Landscape Strategy, and the Cape York Peninsula Land Use Strategy, as well as forest estate management, leases and reserves. This increased responsibility and capability further strengthened the Agency’s role in all environmental matters in Queensland.
The Agency 7 In August 2007, the EPA became part Environmental Services regional boundaries of the Sustainability, Climate Change EPA Boundaries and Innovation portfolio and managed the long-term challenges of ensuring THE AGENCY THE a sustainable future for Queensland. Wide Bay At the same time, climate change policy resources, the Queensland Climate North Brisbane Change Centre of Excellence and Western some climate change programs were Ipswich transferred into the Agency.
South Brisbane
The Office of Climate Change was Major EPA office then established as a new EPA entity to enable the Agency to provide a Far North leadership role in both policy and Townsville implementation to work across government to strengthen Queensland’s ability to lead an effective climate Whitsunday/Coalfields Central Coast change response.
Following a state election, on 26 March
2009 the Premier announced significant Wide Bay reform to the Queensland Public Service, Western North Brisbane including the consolidation of 23 stand-alone departments into 13 new Ipswich departments. These changes grouped South Brisbane like functions into larger, more effective departments.
The Environmental Protection Agency This group incorporated the Wide Bay Burnett and the former Department of Natural Queensland Parks and Wildlife and Corner Lennox and Alice Streets Resources and Water have joined to the Environmental Services divisions Maryborough Qld 4650 become the Department of Environment to take a whole-of-landscape approach Whitsunday Coalfields and Resource Management. to managing the present for an 30 Tennyson Street environmentally sustainable future, Mackay Qld 4740 Locations and to work towards the development of a unified public customer Brisbane North The principal place of business for service interface. 29 The Esplanade the EPA was 160 Ann Street, Brisbane. Cotton Tree Qld 4558 The EPA customer service centre was Regional office locations Western also located there. Park Street Environmental Services Charleville Qld 4470 The EPA operated across 19 regions Northern Brisbane South with 19 senior staff. This included 10 5B Sheridan Street 288 Edward Street Queensland Parks and Wildlife regions Cairns Qld 4870 and 9 Environmental Services regions Brisbane Qld 4001 Central Coast with shared boundaries, where practical, Ipswich Corner Yeppoon and Norman Roads and improved alignment with the local 59 East Street North Rockhampton Qld 4701 government boundaries. Ipswich Qld 4305 Townsville The Agency’s major service delivery Pallarenda Road areas were combined under one group: Townsville Qld 4810 Conservation and Environmental Services.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 8 QueenslandParks and Wildlife Parks Boundaries and Wildlife regional boundaries
Central Queensland Marine North Capricornia Queensland Marine
Sunshine Coast/ Burnett Great Sandy Marine
Moreton Bay Marine
Western
South East
Wet Tropics
Major EPA office Cape York/Savanna
Central Queensland Marine
Capricornia
Sunshine Great Western Coast/ Sandy Burnett Marine
Moreton Bay Marine
South East
Queensland Parks and Wildlife
Terrestrial Marine
Wet Tropics Northern Queensland Marine 1st Floor Ground Floor 5B Sheridan Street Pallarenda Road Cairns Qld 4870 Townsville Qld 4810
Sunshine Coast and Burnett Central Queensland Marine 29 The Esplanade Corner Mandalay Road and Shute Cotton Tree Qld 4558 Harbour Road Cape York Savanna Jubilee Pocket 1st Floor Airlie Beach Qld 4802 5B Sheridan Street Great Sandy Marine Cairns Qld 4870 Corner Lennox and Alice Streets Capricornia Maryborough Qld 4650 30 Tennyson Street Moreton Bay Marine Mackay Qld 4740 127 Russell Street South East Cleveland Qld 4163 60 Mt Nebo Road The Gap Qld 4061
Western Landsborough Highway Longreach Qld 4730
THE AGENCY 9 Organisational structure
The Agency had three outputs that directly contributed to the EPA’s vision of an environmentally sustainable Queensland and
the government’s former priority of Managing Climate Change and Protecting the Environment. The organisational structure AGENCY THE was aligned to our corporate strategy and our outputs aligned with our structure.
Wet Tropics Director-General Office of Management Authority Climate Change
Conservation and Performance and Sustainable Environmental Capability Group Futures Group Services Group
Environmental Queensland Corporate Environmental Strategy Sustainability Sustainable Services Parks and Wildlife Sustainability Sciences and Policy Innovation Communities
regions regions
Conservation and Sustainable Futures »» Strategy and Policy division: Environmental Services to influence and create the future The Sustainable Futures output direction of environmental The Agency’s core service delivery reflected the Agency’s objective of sustainability policy and strategy. output was Conservation and taking a strategic approach to planning Environmental Services. The output for, designing and communicating an Performance and Capability reflected the Agency’s objective environmentally sustainable future. The Performance and Capability group to provide a whole-of-landscape The four sub-outputs were: reflected the Agency’s objective to lead perspective for managing the present »» The Office of Climate Change: organisational sustainability through for an environmentally sustainable to provide a leadership role in valuing our people, our capability and future. The two sub-outputs were: climate change policy responses our knowledge. that reduce greenhouse gas »» Queensland Parks and Wildlife emissions and prepare Queensland This group was led by the Office division: to conserve and manage for the impacts of climate change. of the Assistant Director-General: the EPA Estate to build resilience in »» Sustainable Communities division: to develop and maintain organisational natural systems and provide safe, to inform, involve and partner with sustainability through effective and substantial and sustainable benefits our communities and industries to robust performance management and to the Queensland community. realise an environmentally governance, and build community »» Environmental Services division: sustainable Queensland. knowledge and participation in to enable sustainable development »» Sustainability Innovation division: realising an environmentally and the improvement of business to lead future scanning and sustainable Queensland. and industry’s environmental innovation to guide future performance. government actions to address existing and emerging environmental issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 10 The two divisions in this group were: developments to manage current address a single issue that may in »» Environmental Sciences division: risks and maximise future turn have been related to broader to provide a robust scientific opportunities Agency initiatives and issues. evidence base for policy »» fostering collaboration across the development and decision making. Agency and more broadly outside Internal Audit »» Corporate Sustainability division: of the Agency to lead the development of a »» monitoring Agency performance to The role of Internal Audit, as established sustainable organisation. foster a culture of learning and in state legislation, is to assist the continuous improvement. Director-General to discharge their For reporting purposes, the costs functions and duties. The work of the Office of the Director-General, The EPA Board was chaired by the undertaken by the Internal Audit unit Office of the Assistant Director-General Director-General. Members of the assisted the Agency to achieve its and Corporate Sustainability division Board included the Assistant Director- strategic goal to ‘develop and maintain were apportioned across all other General, Performance and Capability, organisational sustainability through sub-outputs. all Executive Directors and the Director effective and robust performance Governance of the Office of the Director-General. management and governance’.
Strategic planning and The EPA Board was supported by a The approved Charter authorised the reporting framework three-tier governance structure: fulfilment of this role by undertaking audits and reviews to: »» Tier 1 included standing committees The EPA developed its Strategic Plan that dealt with ongoing issues for »» evaluate outcomes/outputs of within the Queensland Government’s the Agency. These committees programs, projects and policies Managing for Outcomes performance reported to the Board and had »» assess the efficiency and management framework, which set out Board approved Terms of Reference effectiveness of resources employed the government’s priorities in response with a three-year review cycle. to community needs. The EPA Agency »» review internal controls and They were chaired by a Board Operational Plan outlined the products compliance with policies member with a number of other and services that would deliver these and legislation. Board members participating, such strategies and ultimately deliver on as the Audit and Risk Management the government’s priorities. By improving consultation with the Committee, Information Strategy Agency’s divisions, adopting a risk- Committee, Agency Health and The Agency measured its performance based audit approach and incorporating Safety Committee and Budget in quarterly Service Delivery Statement requirements of the International Review Committee. reports, quarterly Agency Operational Internal Auditing Standards, the Internal Plan reports, and in annual reports. »» Tier 2 included working groups and Audit unit developed a Strategic Plan committees that had a limited that redirected the focus from what lifespan and were created to drive a was predominantly compliance to a EPA Board particular Agency-wide initiative. more ‘performance, efficiency and These groups reported to the Board effectiveness’ approach, more relevant to The EPA Board was the key source of and had Board approved Terms of the changing needs of the Agency. advice to the Director-General and was Reference. They were chaired or the main leadership, agenda setting sponsored by a Board member with In addition to the core role, the and critical review forum for the membership from across the unit embraced a secondary role of Agency. The responsibilities of the Agency and included the value-added advice and assistance. EPA Board included: Communications Strategy Working The reviews within the Agency gave a » leading the cultural and » Group, Web Content Management unique overall perspective and provided organisational change of System Steering Committee and the opportunity to add value. The unit the Agency Service Delivery Working Group. increased their focus on supporting » leading corporate strategy, direction » »» Tier 3 included ad hoc groups that efficient and effective business setting and alignment of business were formed and may or may not operations by sharing the information activity and projects within the have reported through a Board gathered on better practices and trends Agency’s strategy member or Tier 2 group. They were identified within the Agency. »» critically reviewing key issues and short term and were formed to
THE AGENCY 11 The Internal Audit unit maintained relative independence and objectivity by reporting audit results directly to the
Audit and Risk Management Committee AGENCY THE and Director-General, while reporting administratively to the Assistant Director-General, Performance and Capability.
Audit and Risk Management Committee
The Committee formed part of the Agency’s overall governance structure, overseeing the activities of internal audit, external audit and risk management.
The Committee provided a forum for the Director-General and senior management to communicate openly with internal and external audit on key governance and control topics such as financial reporting, internal control framework, compliance, performance and risk management. The Committee’s membership comprised the Director- General, Executive Directors, one external representative, and was chaired by the Assistant Director- General, Performance and Capability. The structure of the Committee allowed for the provision of timely and constructive advice to be provided directly to the Director-General when inadequate processes were identified that could present a material risk or threat to the Agency.
During the period from 1 July 2008 to 26 March 2009, the Committee met twice and examined: »» internal audit report findings »» external audit report findings »» the status of recommendations made in previous internal and external audits »» the 2007–08 financial statements for endorsement »» the future direction of the Internal Audit unit.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 12
Outputs and goals from the Strategic Plan 2008–12
The EPA’s Strategic Plan 2008–12 outlined the outputs and the strategies that would be used to ensure contribution to delivering the government’s former priority: managing climate change and protecting the environment.
The government redefined their objectives for the community during 2008–09 and introduced Towards Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland (Toward Q2). Under the Toward Q2 strategy, the EPA directly contributed to the ambition of Green: protecting our lifestyle and environment. The Agency was the lead agency for the target Green—cut by one-third Queenslanders’ carbon footprint with reduced car and electricity use; and a co-signatory agency for the target Green—protect 50 per cent more land for nature conservation and public recreation. The Agency also held a consulting role on other targets within the Toward Q2 strategy.
The EPA’s mission was to provide environmentally sustainable solutions for Queensland’s future through leadership in: »» conserving Queensland’s landscapes »» enabling sustainable development »» improving business and industry’s environmental performance »» building community knowledge and participation.
The Agency’s achievements 13 Outputs for 2008–09
Government priority Output Objective Sub-output/division
Whole-of-landscape perspective Queensland Parks and Wildlife Conservation and for managing the present for an Environmental Services environmentally sustainable future Environmental Services
The Office of Climate Change
Planning, designing Sustainable Communities and communicating for ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE Sustainable Futures Managing Climate an environmentally Change and Protecting sustainable future Sustainability Innovation the Environment Strategy and Policy
Environmental Sciences Leading organisational Performance and sustainability through valuing our *Office of the Assistant Director-General Capability people, our capability and our knowledge *Corporate Sustainability
* These two functions are internally focussed. For reporting under the Managing for Outcomes framework, the costs of these are apportioned across all other sub-outputs using a formula based on Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs).
The divisions profiled
Queensland Parks and Wildlife (QPW) Executive Director: Alan Feely
Alan Feely was the Executive Director »» continued to improve the condition The tree-top walkway, the largest of the EPA’s Queensland Parks and of tourism and visitor-related project ever undertaken in Wildlife division. This division was infrastructure on the EPA estate by a Queensland national park, responsible for managing Queensland’s investing $7.2 million in 2008–09 features a 2.2 kilometre forest national parks, marine parks and through the infrastructure walking track that links a 40 metre state forests consisting of 12.5 million maintenance program. high, 340 metre long elevated hectares of terrestrial land and around »» invested $17.5 million in walkway through the canopy with 400 000 square kilometres of marine 2008–09 to upgrade visitor facilities, a 37 metre high observation tower. park. The division was also responsible including boardwalks, seats, »» led the Centenary of Parks for the protection, recovery and lookouts, BBQs, shelters and celebrations. The celebrations sustainable management of native composting toilets, through the were launched at Witches’ Falls, wildlife across all tenures. capital works program. Tamborine National Park on »» continued the fight against fire, 28 March 2008 and were attended The parks and forest estate is a major pest plants and feral animals to by Premier Anna Bligh, who took contributor in making Queensland such protect biodiversity in Queensland’s the opportunity to announce that an attractive place to live, work and extensive network of national parks the national parks estate would be play. The challenge for this division of though investment of $10 million increased by 50 per cent to the agency was to balance conservation in high quality management of 12 million hectares by 2020. with demands for different styles of fire, weeds and pests on EPA- The celebrations culminated in the visitation and ensure that visitor use managed lands. Australian Protected Areas Congress was sustainable. in November 2008. Hosted by the »» launched the new $10 million QPW division of the EPA, APAC Ma:Mu Rainforest Canopy Walkway During the final reporting period, 2008 was an outstanding success in the Wooroonooran National Park. Queensland Parks and Wildlife division:
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 14 bringing together more than 300 »» delivered QPW actions and These parks have an underlying leaders and experts in protected responsibilities outlined in the tenure of Aboriginal freehold and area management and research Queensland Tourism Strategy (QTS) will be managed jointly with the from Europe, Australia and the including the launch of Tourism traditional owners of the land. Asia-Pacific region. Tools and the Valuing Tourism »» finalised the Cooloola Strategic »» completed the Estuarine Crocodile Spend arising from visitation to Directions plan. This management Management Manual. To ensure the Queensland National Parks report. plan, compiled after two years of safeguard of public safety, QPW’s »» implemented tenure resolution in community consultation on how crocodile management plans, accordance with the Queensland to protect the Cooloola Coast, policies and procedures have been Government’s Cape York Peninsula recommends beach speed limits, subject to internal and independent Heritage Act 2007. In 2008, the caps on holiday camper numbers external review. The result is a historic gazettal took place of the and protection for rare collated and coordinated ‘one-stop’ first two national parks (CYPAL— migratory birds. Estuarine Crocodile Management Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal »» continued further recovery work on Manual containing revised policies, Land): Lama Lama National Park Moreton Island Wetlands and other delegations, guidelines and (CYPAL) and KULLA National areas affected by the Moreton Bay procedures to prescribe and Park (CYPAL). oil spill, including special places for guide the QPW’s management the traditional Owners of the area. of estuarine crocodiles.
Environmental Services Executive Director: Andrea Leverington
Andrea Leverington was the Executive under all legislation administered by »» creating and using knowledge to Director of the Environmental Services the EPA. Divisional officers responded build a strong evidence base for division. This division had a strategic to and investigated environmental authoritative advice and decision role to improve business and industry’s incidents and the division was making for best practice environmental performance and enable responsible for a pollution hotline that environmental management. sustainable development. operated 24 hours a day for reporting »» supporting government, business environmental incidents. and industry to deliver on their The division’s service delivery was corporate responsibility to assess complemented by units working This division had a significant role in risks and manage potentially specifically on litigation, assessment, the administration of the Environmental environmentally harmful situations. technical operations and the Ecoaccess Protection Act 1994, Integrated »» ensuring environmental risks Customer Service program. These units Planning Act 1997, Coastal Protection and sustainable development are provided advice to internal and external and Management Act 1995 and proactively managed and monitored clients on all aspects of the division’s State Development and Public Works through a modern and innovative business. Organisation Act 1971. regulatory, compliance, investigation and enforcement program. Environmental Services operated across The division focussed on the nine regions throughout Queensland following priorities: During the final reporting period, with regional officers taking frontline » working collaboratively in » Environmental Services division: responsibility for dealing with all aspects partnerships with government, »» introduced an enhanced of compliance and environmental business, industry and community Environmentally Relevant Activity performance, implementing a proactive groups to improve industry regulatory regime. In January 2009, compliance program for a range of environmental performance. the regulatory fee structure for permits and leading enforcement actions
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 15 Environmentally Relevant Activities implement permanent recycling from the issue of warning notices to was amended to a fee-to-risk basis. facilities in key public areas such as formal prosecutions. The final Under the revised fee structure, those shopping centres and sporting inspection report will provide a operators who met criteria that stadia. In addition, temporary comprehensive risk analysis, which demonstrated implementation of recycling facilities have been used at will guide direction of future best practice environmental more than 40 major events, such as compliance activities in relation to behaviours and management Riverfire and New Year’s Eve regulation of industrial estates. systems, and could demonstrate a celebrations. Five councils have
»» played a key role in the containment ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE reduction in emissions, were eligible adopted continued use of these and recovery from the Moreton Bay for a discount to their annual facilities at local events. A further 11 Oil Spill incident. The department’s licence fee. systems are expected to be Critical Incident Response unit »» delivered intensive air monitoring implemented in 2009–10 including a provided specialist technical, programs in Townsville, Gladstone number of major shopping centres scientific and environmental support and Mount Isa. These programs are across Queensland. and advice to clean-up crews, aiding in operation and on track, and will »» finalised a three-year industrial the protection and rapid recovery of provide communities with a detailed estate inspection program. Following environmental values. Many staff assessment of environmental a major fire incident on an industrial from across the Agency contributed impacts of industry on local estate in 2005, the EPA undertook to the ‘on-the-ground’ clean-up communities and environment. an extensive program to inspect 58 operation, as well as providing »» implemented the Public Place high impact industrial estates across administrative support to the Recycling program—Environmental Queensland. During the program, operation. EPA officers also played Services has been a champion of the more than 3000 sites were inspected significant roles in the recovery and Public Place Recycling project, with more than 400 actions taken to rehabilitation of wildlife impacted partnering with 19 organisations to remedy identified risks. These ranged by the oil.
Office of Climate Change Executive Director: Greg Withers
Greg Withers has been the Executive development, program implementation further cuts to our emissions profile Director of the Office of Climate and scientific research to ensure the »» administering the $430 million Change within the EPA. This office government is well positioned to reduce Queensland Climate Change Fund, led the development of a whole-of- greenhouse gas emissions as well as providing approximately $30 government policy framework to meet prepare communities to adapt to the million per year to priority climate the climate change challenge. physical impacts of climate change. change initiatives and assisting The Office of Climate Change Queensland householder’s transition This program included: comprised specific climate change to low-carbon lifestyles policy functions and the scientific »» coordinating the implementation of »» supporting the Premier’s Council expertise of the Queensland Climate the Queensland Government’s on Climate Change, comprising Change Centre of Excellence (QCCCE), climate change strategy, 14 eminent individuals drawn from enabling the office to utilise the latest ClimateSmart 2050, and its 24 a cross-section of relevant areas research on climate change to provide initiatives to mitigate greenhouse of expertise including industry, a rigorous evidence base for new gas emissions environment, academic and policy initiatives. »» analysing Queensland’s greenhouse community sectors across gas emissions projections out to Queensland and Australia. The Office of Climate Change delivered 2050 and developing policy a program of climate change policy recommendations for achieving
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 16 The Premiers’ Council on program. Cabinet regarding a proposal’s Climate Change has provided - Australia’s biggest ‘green’ greenhouse gas emissions and strategic advice to the Queensland giveaway, the $3.5 million Big possible responses, including Government on a range of climate Light Switch campaign, which adaptation measures. changes issues, including building saw one million energy efficient »» implemented actions from the standards for increased energy compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) ClimateSmart Adaptation 2007–12 efficiency and streamlining the given away to Queenslanders action plan, a five-year plan for approval process for green free of charge. Queenslanders preparing communities and developments will save up to 750 000 tonnes of industry across Queensland for the
»» coordinating the implementation of CO2 emissions and approximately physical impacts of climate change. ClimateSmart Adaptation 2007–12, $115 million in energy costs over The plan includes 62 actions an action plan that contains 62 the life of the bulbs. focussing on water planning and actions for preparing Queensland - Queensland Solar Homes services; agriculture; human communities and industries for the Program allocated 1000 grid- settlements; natural environment ‘built-in’ impacts of climate change. connected solar power systems and landscapes; emergency to Queensland households. services and human health; tourism, During the final reporting period, the - awarded fellowships to three business and industry; and finance Office of Climate Change: Queensland researchers and four and insurance. At the end of »» committed $29.25 million in Chinese researchers under the March 2009, 32 actions have funding to support new climate Queensland China Climate been completed or integrated into change initiatives from the Change Fellowships Program. core business, and the remaining Queensland Climate Change Fund. The Chinese research fellows’ 30 have commenced and These initiatives included: placement in Queensland took are progressing. - ClimateSmart Home Service that place in late November, and the »» actively contributed to the commenced on 5 January 2009. Queensland research fellows national climate change agenda This two-year program is an undertook their placement in by providing input to the Australian first, which will China from late December. The Commonwealth on the design of deliver improved water and Program supports the exchange the national Carbon Pollution energy efficiency in households of knowledge and advances ideas Reduction Scheme (CPRS). across Queensland by installing on climate change research and Participated in, and contributed to energy saving devices, providing policy responses. other national climate change customers with behaviour- »» completed the second season of actions through the Council of change tools, and offering the cloud seeding trial providing Australian Governments (COAG) detailed advice on ways to leading research on the viability and its working groups on energy reduce water and energy use. of cloud seeding in a sub-tropical efficiency, renewable energy, In the first quarter, more than environment. adaptation and complementary 11 000 services had been »» reviewed 180 Climate Change measures as well as the research delivered, with a total of almost Impact Statements (CCIS) over the agenda by contributing to the 30 000 bookings made. The first nine months of operation. National Climate Change delivery of 70 000 services has As of 1 July 2008, all relevant Adaptation Research Facility been contracted for the first year, proposals submitted to Cabinet (NCCARF). with a total of up to 260 000 have included a CCIS. services contracted to be The CCIS provides confidential delivered to Queensland information to Ministers and households over the life of the
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 17
Sustainable Communities Executive Director: Geoff Clare THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE
Geoff Clare was the Executive Director conservation values of their »» continued additions to the national of the Sustainable Communities property. In return, landholders park estate arising from the South division. This group’s strategic purpose commit to maintaining and East Queensland and Wet Tropics was to inform, involve and partner improving conservation values Forestry Agreements. Between with communities and industries by signing a perpetual nature 1 July 2008 and 26 March 2009, to realise an environmentally refuge agreement. more than 290 000 hectares was sustainable Queensland. declared as national park. Sustainable Communities were This division has been responsible for responsible for EPA custodial and The Sustainable Industries branch the management of community legislative obligations with respect to of this division assisted Queensland programs such as ClimateSmart Homes procurement of protected area estate, industry to achieve competitive Service, Commonwealth renewable including undertaking negotiations advantage through improved energy rebates administration and the with landholders on potential environmental performance, and Queensland Solar Homes Program. acquisitions and managing transfer achieve a growing market for The division was also responsible for of land to protected area tenure. sustainability practice, products and the Nature Refuges program that aimed Tenure actions included national services through the diffusion of to safeguard the biodiversity of the park acquisitions, forest transfers, initiatives, including sustainability state for future generations by revocations and offset negotiations, information, program delivery and protecting and conserving species and estate administrative actions, and strategic collaboration. This included habitats through sustainable land Queensland Trust for Nature. ecoBiz, Queensland Sustainable management; and by facilitating the This group: Energy Innovation Fund (QSEIF), mobility of species across the landscape »» managed the statewide conservation ClimateSmart Business, ClimateSmart and the adaptation of species in estate acquisition program, Retail, QWESTNet, and the ByCatch response to a changing climate, including the Daintree Rescue Rebate Program. through the establishment of Package and South East Queensland The Sustainable Industries branch: landscape-level biodiversity corridors. Conservation Initiative. »» enhanced innovation diffusion and They have: »» entered into an agreement with the the uptake of eco-efficient »» increased gazetted Nature Refuges Australian Rainforest Conservation technologies and practices in to 730 961 hectares (at 26 March Society for the restoration of lands industry by facilitating networking 2009) by negotiating conservation purchased at Springbrook. forums and developing carbon agreements for privately managed guides for business. More than 750 »» renewed the Flinders-Greenbank- lands of significant value through delegates attended the forums, with Karawatha Conservation the Nature Refuge, Nature Assist 75 per cent of delegates identifying Partnership Memorandum of and Environmental Partnerships a new environmentally sustainable Understanding between EPA, Scheme programs. product, technology or service that Brisbane City Council, Logan City »» received an unprecedented response could benefit their business; almost Council, Ipswich City Council and to calls for expressions of interest 14 per cent actually purchasing a the Department of Defence for for NatureAssist Round Three, product, technology or service; and cooperative and strategic with 173 applications received. a further 31 per cent intending to management of the area NatureAssist is a competitive do so. recognising its unique values. incentive scheme that provides landholders the opportunity to tender for financial assistance to protect and actively manage
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 18 »» assisted 37 ecoBiz participants water per year; 24.21 tonnes of »» conducted a pilot release of four to complete the six steps of waste per year from landfill; captive bred endangered eastern eco-efficiency and achieve 126 725 kilograms of greenhouse bristle birds into a specially Partner status. gases per year, 123 089 kilometres managed site near Spicer’s Gap in »» licensed the ecoBiz program and of travel per year and 94 539 Cunningham’s Gap National Park. toolbox to the Northern Territory kilowatts of energy per year. Three of the four birds survived the Government to initiate positive »» completed partnership agreements release and have adapted to their climate change actions by with the Australian Green new surroundings. Further releases Northern Territory businesses. Development Forum, Housing and habitat management actions are planned. »» held round four of the ecoBiz Institute of Australia, and Urban Rebates program, with five Development Institute of Australia. »» transported 19 Bridled Nailtail applications received and $20 000 »» commenced the by-catch reduction wallabies from David Fleay in rebates approved. (hopper) program as a voluntary, Wildlife Park to a breeding facility at Kial, 150 kilometres »» released business sustainability single-tier rebate of up to $30 000 north of Rockhampton. guides, including: The Top 10 or 80 per cent of the hopper Workplace Tips, a poster offering installation costs »» released 10 bilbies bred at free and inexpensive ways to cut »» supported the Printing Industry Charleville EPA into an enclosure at costs and environmental impacts; Association of Australia and the Currawinya National Park, the third The Carbon Guide: It’s a jungle out Building Services Contractors and largest release of bilbies to the there, a plain English introduction Association to implement park. Previously released animals to carbon issues for business; the certification programs. are successfully breeding at the site. ecoBiz Small Business Edition, a »» redeveloped the EPA Koala user-friendly tool to help businesses The division managed The Threatened Hospitals Information System. measure and improve their Species Program and aimed to The new interface provides a environmental footprint, and office generate and document knowledge sophisticated data-validation retrofit guides. about Queensland’s threatened plant process at input to minimise data »» launched the ClimateSmart Business and animal species and determine entry and koala return forms errors. program, designed to assist small priorities for conservation action, and »» promoted Threatened Species Week business reduce costs while facilitate species recovery across all 2008, to inform the public about achieving improved environmental tenures through threat abatement and Queensland’s threatened species and outcomes. As part of the program, habitat management. They have: about actions needed for protection the EPA called for ClimateSmart »» developed a Koala Crisis Response and management. The theme was business leaders to lead groups of Strategy in response to ‘Stepping Stones for Conservation’. up to 20 businesses and provide recommendations from the Premiers expertise and networking Taskforce on Koala Conservation. opportunities to develop and »» finalised agreement with implement sustainability mining company Xstrata for action plans. a $3 million sponsorship to »» completed the ClimateSmart Living support the reintroduction of the Communities partnership project endangered northern hairy-nosed with Ergon Energy. The program has wombat to a site near St George in provided four community libraries south-west Queensland. with a grid-connected two-kilowatt »» refurbished the Daisy Hill Koala hour photovoltaic array and on-line Centre as an interpretive focal monitoring of power generation, as point for koala conservation in well as information about how south east Queensland. they can reduce carbon »» assessed 22 development dioxide emissions. applications against the »» supported the Noosa/Caboolture requirements of the Koala Living Smart Homes project. Conservation Plan. Through this project, 128 people collectively saved 2373 kilolitres of
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 19
Sustainability Innovation Acting Executive Director: Doug Watson THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE
Doug Watson was acting Queensland: Strategies for eco-industrial park. Executive Director of the voluntary household and »» chaired the judging of the 2008 Sustainability Innovation division. lifestyle changes’. EPA Sustainable Industries Awards. This division had a whole-of-Agency, »» conducted a Sustainable Energy »» managed the joint Department of future-focussed responsibility for Innovation workshop that Tourism, Regional Development and scanning environmental issues that generated suggestions for Industry (DTRDI) and EPA ‘Making impact on the future of the state. progressing sustainable energy the Smart State the Sustainability Innovative opportunities for sustainable innovation in Queensland and State’ forum, designed to further development, and solutions and facilitated networking between develop the partnership between the strategies for conservation, including leading thinkers in this field. Agencies and engender risks and impacts for economic and A report on the outcomes of the collaborative networks among social development, were Sustainable Energy Innovation departmental executives. key deliverables. Workshop was prepared »» provided expert facilitation advice and distributed. to several EPA-conducted During the final reporting period, »» conducted a workshop that workshops, to improve their Sustainability Innovation division: brought together experts from the sustainability outcomes. Workshops »» arranged the Australian publication public sector and private industry included the Waste Policy team’s of The Low Carbon Diet, involving to develop a shared understanding interstate policy development technical translation of an award- of Greenhouse and Energy in workshop in November 2008. winning American social marketing Queensland Homes. A discussion »» coordinated sustainable behaviour manual for climate change paper produced for the workshop workshops to local government, engagement. is being widely used as a key business, community groups and »» developed a Solar Suburbs initiative reference document by individuals delivering sustainable that was adopted by the Office of organisations such as the Brisbane behaviour campaigns and Clean Energy (OCE) and Ergon City Council and the CSIRO. strategies. Energy, who are collaborating on »» conducted two information sessions »» coordinated the EPA’s provision of the development of proposals for for members of the Western expert technical advice to the photovoltaic solar power projects Corridor Manufacturers former Department of Tourism, to validate Solar Suburbs concepts. Sustainability Group on Industrial Regional Development and The Solar Suburbs concept was Ecology in conjunction with the Industry’s Smart Future Fund developed by Sustainability former Department of Tourism, applications in December 2008 – Innovation division and aimed to Regional Development and Industry January 2009. accelerate a more cost-effective Ipswich office. uptake of photovoltaic solar power. »» undertook, in conjunction with the A commitment has been made by former Department of Tourism, the University of Queensland to Regional Development and Industry build a one-megawatt solar power Ipswich office, a pilot waste micro-grid at the University’s assessment survey of St Lucia campus. manufacturing businesses in the »» drafted a first paper for Premier’s Carole Park Industrial Estate with a Council on Climate Change view to identifying and developing ‘Achieving early and affordable by-products synergies—the first step greenhouse gas reductions in towards developing an
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 20
Strategy and Policy Executive Director: Tony Roberts
Tony Roberts has been the Executive stakeholders, business industry and the »» coordinated the whole-of- Director of Strategy and Policy community, to develop policies that government response to the division and has been responsible provide for sustainable development Queensland’s Vulnerability to for developing policy and regulatory and protect Queensland’s precious Rising Oil Prices Taskforce report instruments that advance the state’s natural assets, recognising that our by producing an information paper sustainability and environmental state’s prosperity depends on both. for public consultation. remade the protection priorities. Environmental Protection During the final reporting period, Regulation to introduce a new fee These priorities included: Strategy and Policy division has: structure for environmentally »» enhancing natural resource »» introduced the Queensland relevant activities. management policy to protect the Government Environmental Offsets »» remade the Environmental environmental values of land and Policy on 1 July 2008—providing Protection Policies (EPPs) for Air, water in Queensland, including our overarching principles and Noise and Water and finalised the wetlands, reefs and coasts. processes for the use of offsets in amendments to the Environmental »» developing and promoting policy Queensland. The policy ensures that Protection Act 1994 to improve on environmental market proposed development avoids efficiency of nuisance, clean-up mechanisms including environmental harm where possible, and cost recovery, and fuel environmental offsetting. but where this is not possible, that quality standards. environmental harm is minimised »» implementing strategies to optimise »» delivered through the Queensland’s to the greatest extent. resource recovery and efficiency. Wetlands Program a comprehensive »» commenced the 10-year Moreton suite of world-class resources to »» leading the development of Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan on help the state manage wetlands to biodiversity related policy to 1 March 2009. Under the new world’s best practice standards. conserve and protect important zoning plan, 16 per cent of Moreton The success of the first phase of species, ecosystems and critical Bay Marine Park is protected by the Program led to an additional habitats. marine national park (green) $1.1 million in funding secured for »» monitoring, reviewing and zones—a substantial increase on 2009–2010. strengthening the state’s regulatory the previous half a per cent. »» the Queensland Heritage Strategy framework for environmental »» launched EcoFund in January 2009 was noted by Cabinet, providing a protection. as a stand-alone business unit to 10-year plan that will strengthen »» providing for the conservation of take financial contributions to the state’s commitment to heritage Queensland’s cultural heritage, offset the unavoidable environment conservation. recognising that heritage places impacts of development activities. »» administered more than play an important part in Contributions to ecoFund will $2.1 million under the Heritage conserving our lifestyle, enable developers to meet Grants Program to provide targeted environment and communities. regulatory environmental offset financial assistance for owners of requirements and these investments key heritage places. Strategy and Policy division engaged will then be carefully matched to with the state’s agency partners, initiatives that protect Queensland’s Queensland’s range of environmental rich environmental assets.
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 21
Office of the Assistant Director-General, Performance and Capability Executive Director: Doug Watson THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE Doug Watson was the Acting Assistant for what was one of the most accessed recommend improvements to agency Director-General of the Performance environmental sites in Australia and governance processes. and Capability Group. the third most accessed Queensland Government website: During the final reporting period, the This group’s strategic role was www.epa.qld.gov.au office of the Assistant Director-General, to build community knowledge Performance and Capability, has: and participation in realising The ClimateSmart Living team was »» signed a one year sponsorship an environmentally sustainable an additional special project team agreement between Climate Coolers Queensland by: that complemented the suite of and Queensland Government. »» delivering an integrated marketing, communication activities. This team The first Brisbane ambassador media and communication strategy was responsible for implementing and briefing was held in early April and managing ClimateSmart Living Phase »» developing and maintaining was attended by Premier Bligh and 2, which included the Low Carbon organisational sustainability Minister Jones. The ClimateSmart Diet community funding program and through effective and robust Living team have been managing the behavioural change campaign to performance management, the project, in collaboration with support the Q2 Green target to reduce systems improvement and the Office of Climate Change and Queenslanders’ carbon footprint. corporate performance the Department of the Premier and improvement strategies Cabinet (DPC). The Strategy Unit was responsible for »» providing internal audit services »» organised sponsorship by the the development and implementation of to evaluate and contribute to the Queensland Government of the the Corporate Strategy and associated improvement of risk management, 2009 Earth Hour (28 March 2009). business improvement activities. internal control, and governance The EPA was the lead agency and They also developed and implemented processes to improve business provided communications support performance planning, evaluation and performance and compliance. via internal communications to risk management frameworks. staff (within EPA Carbon Neutral The Media, Multimedia Services, campaign), website promotions, Many of the sectors statutory planning Strategic Marketing, and collateral support and liaison with and reporting requirements—such as Communications and Events units the Department of Public Works strategic plans, agency operational made up the communications hub (DPW) over lighting for DPW- plans, Service Delivery Statements and of the Agency. These teams owned or leased buildings. annual reports—were produced by this collaborated to provide core media, »» co-signed with Local Government team. The team was also responsible communications and marketing for Association of Queensland (LGAQ) a for ensuring that decision support the agency and managed the growing climate change partnership. The systems and processes aligned with the importance of environmental issues to partnership, from April to direction of the corporate strategy. the community and media. November 2009, will enable both agencies to promote key activities The Internal Audit unit provided The services provided by these units and programs that will strengthen internal audit services to identify included creative and consultancy statewide awareness and take-up of and evaluate significant exposures support for Agency events, launches climate change and sustainability to risk management and control and public contact opportunities; programs and initiatives for systems; evaluate the efficiency overseeing the Agency’s sponsorship business, industry and households. and effectiveness of programs and obligations; providing graphic controls and promote their continuous design, audio and visual services; and improvement; and, assess and managing the EPA’s on-line presence
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 22 »» promoted various agency initiatives wombat reintroduction project, manage 126 media enquiries to increase public awareness, which will see a number of directly relating to the Agency’s role such as: wombats moved to a separate in the Moreton Bay oil spill - Public Place Recycling colony in St George. Xstrata’s incident, including wildlife rescue Promotions were developed to sponsorship is being used, in part, and recovery, and camping on build the profile of, and support to create an environment at St Moreton and Bribie islands. for, the Public Place Recycling George equivalent to the colony Experience gained will be program (PPR) through trials at at Epping Forest. Web pages have incorporated in future critical major Queensland sports venues, been developed promoting the incident responses either as a lead selected national parks, Xstrata partnership and or supportive department. partnering shopping centres and reintroduction project and TIME »» completed round one of the Low nominated council green spaces. magazine featured the wombats Carbon Diet community funding. The success of PPR depends upon in American and Australian Nineteen applications (including 6 extending community willingness issues during March/April. The local councils and 13 community to recycle at home, currently communications campaign will groups) were received in this initial supported by more than 90 per continue, with more web page funding round. Total funding cent of the population, to a updates and a wombat ‘microsite’ applied for was $167 721 (17 per similar commitment to recycle to allow the public to follow the cent of the ClimateSmart Living when facilities are made available move of wombats to their new total funding budget). The 19 in as many public places as home, a national TV projects are predicted to collectively possible. documentary on the project by reach approximately 21 419 - northern hairy-nosed wombat Network TEN with interests from households or 59 974 people. six-month and three-year media Discovery Channel and ZDF Funding submissions were spread and promotional plans have been Germany, and media planning to across the state with a catchment developed and executed to allow international television area from Cairns, to Roma, to promote Xstrata as the project coverage of the move. greater Brisbane—including Moreton partner and $3 million sponsor of »» worked in conjunction with Bay. Round two funding closed on the EPA’s northern hairy-nosed Maritime Safety Queensland, to 20 April 2009.
Environmental Sciences Executive Director: Dr. Christine Williams
Dr. Christine Williams has been reporting; and providing strategic »» conducted monitoring and water the Executive Director of the direction for science effort within the quality testing in the Fitzroy River Environmental Sciences division and Agency through science planning and following the dewatering of the has been responsible for providing coordination with the Queensland Ensham mine near Emerald the necessary science to support Government’s Chief Scientist. »» published the Queensland Waste the Agency’s policy, planning and and Recycling Report Card and operations decisions; providing During the final reporting period, the supporting technical report scientific monitoring, modelling and Environmental Sciences division has: »» completed the statewide assessment of environmental conditions »» provided science support to the 2005 remnant vegetation maps, and trends in air quality, biodiversity, clean-up after the oil spill in and published the analysis water quality, coastal waves and tides; Moreton Bay caused by the report on Queensland’s 1351 providing scientific advice, assessments, Pacific Adventurer regional ecosystems environmental information systems and comprehensive environmental
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 23 »» established a collaborative »» prepared the Queensland Pollutant marine turtle species in Australia: partnership with CSIRO and the Emissions Report Card 2008 A biological review of Australian Australian Rainforest Conservation »» prepared the Water Quality Report marine turtles. Production of this Society to expand the Wireless Card for the Great Barrier Reef for report was partly funded by the Sensor Network to monitor the the Commonwealth Department of Australian Department of environmental restoration of the Environment, Water, Heritage and Environment and Heritage and Springbrook Plateau the Arts the content was peer reviewed prior to publication. »» implemented the Wetland »» prepared the Environmental Health ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE Information Capture and Monitoring Program (EHMP) Report »» launched the Flora of North enhancements to the Wetland Card with the Healthy Waterways Stradbroke Island publication maps systems Partnership written by the EPA in close liaison with the Minjerribah Moorgumpin »» produced the South East »» published 46 scientific papers from Elders on behalf of Consolidated Queensland State of the Region July 2008 to March 2009 report for the Department of Rutile Limited (CRL). Flora of North »» completed 103 rare and threatened Infrastructure and Planning, Stradbroke Island contains over 650 species assessments under the developed to inform the review species and the publication included Nature Conservation Act 1992 phase of the South East Queensland photographs of the majority of »» published the first comprehensive Regional Plan, through State of these species. collation of biological data for all Environment (SoE) On-line
Corporate Sustainability Executive Director: Terry Harper
Terry Harper has been the Executive At 26 March 2009, the EPA was on Corporate Sustainability has improved Director of the Corporate Sustainability target to achieve Carbon Neutrality by the information management practices division and has had responsibility the close of the financial year. across the agency, meeting compliance for strategic and tactical workforce requirements of Information Standards, management, information management, The internal initiatives driven by this and recognising and valuing our finance and resource management, division around energy minimisation, information assets. corporate counsel and customer service resource conservation and fuel delivery. This division has worked with efficiency, were helping to minimise This division was also responsible for other divisions and regions across the the impacts of climate change and the management of our workforce, agency to improve performance in demonstrating proactive leadership in ensuring that we had a safe, healthy major functional areas. organisational sustainability. and rewarding work environment for all staff. This division has been responsible This division also implemented for leading the Agency to become a ‘green’ purchasing practices within model sustainable organisation via the agency and partnered with such initiatives as the ‘carbon neutral’ Queensland Purchasing to ensure strategy with the aim of achieving environmental considerations were neutral status in 2008–09. incorporated into whole-of-government purchasing agreements.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 24 »» Commonwealth Aluminium »» Recreation Areas Management Legislation and Corporation Pty. Limited Agreement Act 2006 administration Act 1957 (to the extent that it is »» Thiess Peabody Coal Pty. Ltd. relevant to environmental matters) Agreement Act 1962 (to the Acts and legislation »» Currumbin Bird Sanctuary Act 1976 extent that it is relevant to At 26 March 2009, the following »» Environmental Protection Act 1994 environmental matters) legislation was administered, whole »» Forestry Act 1959 (jointly »» Thiess Peabody Mitsui Coal or in part, by the Agency on behalf of administered with the Minister for Pty. Ltd. Agreements Act 1965 the Minister for Climate Change and Natural Resources and Water and (to the extent that it is relevant to Sustainability: Minister Assisting the Premier in environmental matters) »» Aboriginal Land Act 1991 (s132A North Queensland except to the »» Torres Strait Islander Land Act (2)–(11); s134 (as it applies to the extent administered by the Treasurer 1991 (s 80(2)–(11); s 131 (as it provisions of the Act administered and the Minister for Primary applies to the provisions of the Act by the Minister)) Industries and Fisheries) administered by the Minister)) »» Alcan Queensland Pty. Limited »» Gurulmundi Secure Landfill »» Tweed River Entrance Sand Agreement Act 1965 (Sch—to the Agreement Act 1992 Bypassing Project Agreement extent that it is relevant to »» Marine Parks Act 2004 Act 1998 environmental matters) »» Mineral Resources Act 1989 »» Wet Tropics World Heritage »» Brisbane Forest Park Act 1977 (to the extent that it is relevant to Protection and Management »» Cape York Peninsula Heritage Act environmental matters) Act 1993. 2007 (Part 2, Part 6 s24) »» Mount Isa Mines Limited Agreement Primary legislation passed during the (Parts 1, 5, 6 s28–29 jointly Act 1985 (to the extent that it is period 1 July 2008 – 26 March 2009 administered with the Minister for relevant to environmental matters) that amended the above legislation: Natural Resources, Mines and »» National Environment Protection »» Environmental Protection and Energy and Minister for Trade) Council (Queensland) Act 1994 Other Legislation Amendment Act »» Central Queensland Coal Associates »» National Trust of Queensland Act (No.2) 2008 (Note: the Greenhouse Agreement Act 1968 (Sch 1 pt 1963 Gas Storage Act 2009, which was III— to the extent that it is relevant led by the former Department of »» Nature Conservation Act 1992 to environmental matters) Mines and Energy, also made »» Newstead House Trust Act 1939 »» Coastal Protection and Management substantial amendments to the Act 1995 »» Queensland Heritage Act 1992 above legislation).
Report on the The Act provides that protecting »» Environmental Protection administration of Queensland’s environment is to be (Water) Policy 1997 the Environmental achieved by an integrated management »» Environmental Protection Protection Act 1994 program consistent with ecologically (Noise) Policy 2008 sustainable development. »» Environmental Protection The objective of the Environmental (Waste Management) Policy 2000 Protection Act 1994 (the Act) is to List of legislation and subordinate legislation protect Queensland’s environment A separate report on the administration while allowing for development that »» Environmental Protection of this Act will be prepared for the improves the total quality of life, both Regulation 2008 2008–09 year and will be tabled in now and in the future, in a way that »» Environmental Protection (Waste Parliament in accordance with the maintains the ecological processes Management) Regulation 2000 reporting requirements outlined in on which life depends (ecologically this legislation. sustainable development). »» Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 25 conserving nature through voluntary »» Nature Conservation (Macropod Report on the agreements and sustainable use of land Harvest Period 2009) Notice 2008 Administration of and natural resources. »» Nature Conservation (Protected the Nature Conservation Areas Management) Regulation 2006 Act 1992 The NC Act provides for proclamation »» Nature Conservation (Protected The Nature Conservation Act 1992 of subordinate legislation in the form of Areas) Regulation 1994 regulations and conservation plans. (NC Act) aims to achieve an integrated »» Nature Conservation (Protected and comprehensive approach to Plants) Conservation Plan 2000 ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE conserving nature. It provides a List of legislation and »» Nature Conservation (Protected legislative basis for research, community subordinate legislation Plants Harvest Period) Notice 2009 education, dedicating, declaring »» Nature Conservation (Whales and and managing protected areas, and »» Nature Conservation Dolphins) Conservation Plan 1997 protecting native wildlife and its habitat. (Administration) Regulation 2006 »» Nature Conservation (Wildlife »» Nature Conservation (Dugong) Management) Regulation 2006 The NC Act allows for the ecologically Conservation Plan 1999 sustainable use of wildlife and protected »» Nature Conservation (Wildlife) »» Nature Conservation (Estuarine areas, and recognises the interests of Regulation 2006 Crocodile) Conservation Plan 2007 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander »» Nature Conservation (Forest people in nature and their cooperative A separate report on the administration Reserves) Regulation 2000 involvement in its conservation. of the NC Act will be prepared for the »» Nature Conservation (Koala) 2008–09 financial year and tabled The roles of landholders and the Conservation Plan 2006 in Parliament in accordance with the community are recognised and the Act »» Nature Conservation (Macropod) reporting requirements outlined in s139 encourages their involvement in Conservation Plan 2005 of the Act.
Report on the agreements and instruments in place to List of legislation and Administration of the guide ongoing management. subordinate legislation Marine Parks Act 2004 The Marine Parks Act 2004 aims to »» Marine Parks Act 2004 The Marine Parks Act 2004 aims to achieve a coordinated and integrated »» Marine Parks (Declaration) provide for the conservation of the approach with other environment Regulation 2006 marine environment in Queensland by conservation legislation, and recognises »» Marine Parks (Great Barrier Reef implementing a comprehensive range of the cultural, economic, environmental Coast) Zoning Plan 2004 management strategies. These include and social relationships between marine »» Marine Parks (Great Sandy) the declaration of Marine Parks and parks and their adjacent lands and Zoning Plan 2006 the establishment of zones, designated waters. Marine Parks are managed areas and highly protected areas within to ensure that public appreciation, »» Marine Parks (Moreton Bay) Marine Parks. These management understanding and enjoyment of the Zoning Plan 2008 arrangements are formalised through marine environment can be achieved. »» Marine Parks Regulation 2006 the gazettal of zoning plans and development of management plans. Marine parks extend across expansive Note that the Marine Parks (Moreton areas adjacent to the Queensland coast, Bay) Zoning Plan 1997 was repealed The Environmental Protection Agency which are under the control of both and replaced with the Marine Parks sought the cooperative involvement of the Commonwealth and Queensland (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan 2008 on public authorities and other interested governments. The Commonwealth and 1 March 2009. groups in the management of Marine the State of Queensland have agreed Parks, including Aboriginal and Torres that, in conserving marine parks, A separate report on the administration Strait Islander communities. Australia’s Queensland is to maintain as far as of the Marine Parks Act 2004 will be international responsibilities are also practicable, state legislation in line with prepared for the 2008–09 financial year given significant consideration in the the relevant Commonwealth legislation. and tabled in Parliament in accordance management of Marine Parks, with the reporting requirements outlined along with intergovernmental in s148 of the Act.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 26 Other administration means of accessing documents held Community engagement information by government agencies and ensures that documents concerning a person’s The Agency had responsibilities for consultation with its stakeholders, Privacy personal affairs are accurate, complete, up to date and not misleading. including communities, industry and The Queensland Government requires local government. While divisions that personal information held by In order to assist members of the within the Agency conducted most Queensland Government agencies be community seeking information held of the consultation activities under responsibly and transparently collected by the Agency, an annual Statement statutory, policy and operational and managed in accordance with the of Affairs was produced. The Statement requirements, the Agency also requirements of the government’s of Affairs outlined the Agency’s proactively undertook research to privacy policy. history, purpose, mission and values, as assess stakeholder attitudes to the well as its current organisational and environment and the best channels The primary intent of the policy is management structure and functions. for communication. to protect the privacy of personal It set out the types of documents information of the people of Queensland held by the Agency and included a Consultation was carried out on a that is collected and used in the delivery list of policy documents that may be diverse range of matters from July of government services and the conduct examined by members of the public. 2008 to March 2009 including: of government business. »» air quality It also gave advice on how to lodge »» climate change science, impacts The Environmental Protection Agency an FOI application. The Statement and adaptation options was committed to ensuring that all of Affairs can be found on the EPA »» forest, park and fire management personal information holdings of website at www.derm.qld.gov.au » recovery programs for wildlife the department were managed with An FOI application must: » (including koalas, northern integrity and in accordance with the »» be in writing eleven Information Privacy Principles hairy-nosed wombats and »» state an address to which a (IPPs) as detailed in the EPA Privacy flying foxes) notification of the decision Management Plan. This plan is »» eco-tourism may be sent available from the EPA website at »» management of world »» contain sufficient information as www.epa.qld.gov.au heritage areas is reasonably necessary to locate/ » water and rivers identify the documents » »» waste. Freedom of information »» be accompanied by an application The purpose of the Freedom of fee, and if the information relates One of the Agency’s priority Information Act 1992 (FOI Act) is to non-personal matters be engagement projects was the to extend as far as possible the right addressed to: announcement and implementation of the community to have access to FOI Officer, Environmental of the new zoning plan for the information held by the Queensland Protection Agency, PO Box 15155, Moreton Bay Marine Park. This has Government. Subject to exceptions City East Qld 4002 or emailed to been a long-term major consultation provided for in the FOI Act, every [email protected] project. Previous consultation was person has a legally enforceable right carried out during 2007-08 following to be given access to any document of Shared Service Initiative the release of the draft Plan. For the an agency or official document of a current financial year, the project has Minister. The exceptions provided for During 2008–09, the Shared Service involved significant public education in the FOI Act recognise that there are Agency provided operational financial and awareness activities leading up to competing public and private interests, management, workforce management the commencement of the new zoning which may warrant non-disclosure of and selected information and plan that commenced on 1 March some government-held information. communication technology services to 2009. Substantial information products While the Agency provided a the EPA. The activities of the Shared were distributed including maps and wide variety of information to the Service Agency and CorpTech are information sheets and a quality 40 community about its activities, the reported in the annual report of the page full colour Moreton Bay Marine Freedom of Information Act 1992 Department of Public Works. Park user guide. provides the public with a formal
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 27 All products were freely distributed to This was the first time the Symposium To support good corporate governance, bait and tackle stores, marinas, fishing had been held in Australia or the the Agency developed an Information clubs, local governments, tourism Oceania region. It provided a unique Management Strategy and Policy to outlets and community members. opportunity to showcase regional efforts better manage information resources in to effectively manage and conserve sea a holistic and integrated way. Over 65 000 user guides are now in the turtles at local, federal and international Records in all their forms were a public realm whilst in the field, more levels, as well as showcasing the key component of the information than 200 signs were installed at boat Queensland Government’s role in managed by the Agency. Reviews were THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE ramps and out in the water. Marine the conservation of the state’s undertaken of current recordkeeping Park Rangers have spoken to more than turtle population. functionality, policies, standards and 780 people face-to-face out on patrol guidelines, with analysis of existing and training of the Queensland Boating Agency staff worked with industry, recordkeeping tools and business and Fisheries Patrol officers is about to not-for-profit organisations and processes, and email management. be undertaken. communities to disseminate information through sponsorship arrangements. A recordkeeping and information Sponsorships Working with these groups achieved management education and awareness Projects for environmental more effective diffusion of best practice campaign was developed with many sustainability, climate change, in sustainability and environmental activities occurring through the 2008– clean energy, land care, and community management. 09 year, including basic recordkeeping programs were supported by induction for all new starters as part of Agency sponsorship from July 2008 The Agency also benefited from the corporate orientation program. to March 2009. sponsorship received from external organisations. The 2008 Sustainable Further training was made available Sponsorships included the following Industries Awards were supported by to staff who undertook records events, activities and topics: eight sponsors who provided funding management duties daily. to promote innovation, excellence and »» Green Cross – National the setting of benchmarks in business To ensure public records were People’s Assembly sustainability. managed appropriately within the »» Redcliffe Seafood Festival Agency, the Strategic and Operational Recordkeeping »» 2008 International Youth Recordkeeping Implementation Coastal Conference The Agency was compliant with the Plans, and the associated Business »» Veg Futures 2008 provisions of the Public Records Act Classification Scheme linked to a »» Carbon Expo Australasia 2008 2002, and Information Standard Retention and Disposal Schedule was reviewed and revised in 2008–09. »» Clean Energy Council Inaugural 40: Recordkeeping, whereby public The Records Management Guidelines Conference & Exhibition 2008 authorities are required to make and keep full and accurate records of and Procedures were reviewed and published on the intranet to assist staff A major sponsorship by the EPA their activities and have regard to and users to observe the requirements supported the 29th Symposium on recordkeeping policies, standards and of the whole-of-Agency approach to Sea Turtle Biology & Conservation. guidelines issued by the Queensland State Archivist. records management.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 28 »» Eagle Downs Project: Final »» Study of the cumulative impacts on Publications Environmental Impact Statement water quality of mining activities in At 26 March 2009, the EPA library Terms of Reference the Fitzroy River Basin contained the publications listed below. »» Environmental emission profiles: a »» Tactical compliance plan 2008-12 Many of them are available in full tool to profile the relative risk of »» Terms of reference for the text on the Internet at environmentally relevant activities Cannington Life Extension www.derm.qld.gov.au under the Environmental Protection Project EIS Regulation 2008 »» Towards oil resilience For further information about these »» Final Public Benefit Test Report for »» 2007 water quality report: and other Environmental Protection the review of the Environmental Great Barrier Reef catchments and Agency publications, contact Library Protection Regulation 1998 Services on 07 3227 8558 or e-mail inshore ecosystems »» Final Terms of Reference for an [email protected] Environmental Impact Statement Brochures and fact sheets Corporate (EIS): Dugald River Project »» Back on track species prioritisation »» Annual Report 2007-2008 »» Final terms of reference for the framework Pisolite Hills Project »» EPA bulletin »» Bright lights and marine turtles » Flora of North Stradbroke Island don’t go together »» Statement of Affairs August 2008 » »» Girraween National Park: draft »» Clean and healthy air for Gladstone Books, reports and plans management plan »» Cooloola conditions report »» Biological review of Australian »» Investigation on mangrove dieback, »» Cut the Glow to help turtles go marine turtles. 2, Green turtle Fitzroy River, Rockhampton »» Fact sheet: By-catch Project Chelonia mydas (Linnaeus) »» Literature Review of Horse Riding Queensland »» Biological review of Australian Impacts on protected areas - Small hopper devices marine turtles. 1, Loggerhead turtle »» Marine park (Moreton Bay) zoning »» Fact sheet: Mining Caretta caretta (Linnaeus) plan 2008 - Fact sheet 4: Application for an »» Biological review of Australian »» Narangba particle monitoring environmental authority (mining marine turtles. 4. Olive Ridley October 2006-August 2007 activities) (06Jan09) Turtle Lepidochelys olivacea »» Oil vulnerability strategy/action - Fact sheet 5: Codes of (Escholtz) plan for Queensland environmental compliance »» Biological review of Australian »» Policy for biodiversity offsets: - Fact sheet 9: Annual fee marine turtles. 3. Hawksbill Turtle consultation draft and return Eretmochelys imbricata (Linnaeus) »» Queensland Pollutant Emission »» Fitzroy River stock watering and »» Biological review of Australian report card 2008 irrigation tables marine turtles. 6. Leatherback Turtle »» Queensland Turtle Conservation »» Fraser Island conditions report Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli) Project: North West Island Study »» Public place recycling catalogue »» Clean and Healthy Air for 2007-2008 »» Public place recycling style guide Gladstone Project: interim report, »» Queensland waste and recycling Public place recycling design health assessment phase 1 »» report card 2007 components – background »» Clean and Healthy Air for »» Review of the Fitzroy River water Public place recycling templates Gladstone Project: Human health »» quality issues risk assessment methodology »» Remnant vegetation in Queensland »» Roseby Copper Project: »» Compliance strategy 2008-12 »» Springbrook wireless sensor Environmental Impact Statement / network »» Consultation report: Regulatory proposed by Universal Resources Impact Statement and draft Public Limited July 2008 »» Turtle watching guide: Mon Repos Benefit Test for the review of the Conservation Park »» Strategic directions for Cooloola Environmental Protection »» Visitor guide »» State of waste and recycling in Regulation 1998 - Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) Queensland 2007 »» Draft Byfield area National Park management plan
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 29 »» Weed Spotters Queensland Network Information sheets »» Moreton Bay Marine Park – protecting our future today Zoning Plan Review: »» Contaminated land: Management of »» Whale watching safety guide Environmental commitments development applications for »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning »» Wild neighbours potentially contaminated land Plan Review: Further references - Koalas and cars »» Environmental Operations: »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Compliance codes/Codes of Environmentally relevant activities Zoning Plan Review: Practice devolved to local government Habitat information: Coral ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE »» ERA 17 — Abrasive blasting »» Environmental Protection »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning (mobile and temporary activity) Regulation: Activities delegated to Plan Review: Habitat information: the Dept of Primary Industries and »» ERA 57 — Regulated waste Mangroves Fisheries transport »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning »» Environmental Protection »» ERA 16 — Extractive and Plan Review: Habitat information: Regulation: Deleted screening activities Seagrass environmentally relevant activities »» Code of practice (Wildlife): »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning »» Environmental Protection Commercial crocodile viewing Plan Review: Managing threatened Regulation: Environmentally species in Moreton Bay Marine Park Guidelines relevant activities – comparative »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning »» By-catch Project Queensland: table Plan Review: Pressures on the Hopper rebate guidelines »» Environmental Protection marine park »» Guidelines for public recycling Regulation: Ready reckoner »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning in shopping centres »» Environmental Protection Plan Review: Species information: Regulation: Environmentally »» Rehabilitating adult koalas: Dugong Considerations for the keeping of relevant activities devolved to »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning sick or injured adult koalas local government Plan Review: Species information: »» Environmental Protection »» Wildlife management: Keeping Shorebirds wildlife commercially in Regulation: Paying a reduced »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Queensland - Conditions and annual fee Plan Review: Species information: restrictions - Keeping and using »» Fees: Electronically paying fees Turtles protected, international or to the Environmental Protection prohibited animals under a wildlife Agency (EPA) »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan Review: Species information: demonstrator license »» Fees: Summary of annual fees – Whales and dolphins »» Wildlife management: Environmentally Relevant Keeping wildlife commercially in Activities (ERAs) »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan Review: Why marine reserves Queensland - Conditions and »» Fees: Fees for development are important restrictions. Keeping and using applications made within controlled or commercial animals koala areas »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning under a commercial wildlife licence Plan Review: Understanding »» Integrated Planning Act: Queensland coastal waters in »» Wildlife management: Keeping The integrated development relation to the Moreton Bay wildlife privately in Queensland - assessment system (IDAS) Conditions and restrictions - Marine Park »» Licensing: EPA’s Environmental Keeping and using controlled, »» Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Services’ offices: contact details commercial, recreational, restricted Plan Review: Understanding the and Council areas or international animals under a Convention on Biological Diversity »» Marine park management: Permits recreational wildlife licence (CBD) for (state only) marine parks »» Wildlife management: »» Sewage treatment: Greywater and »» Mining: Where to lodge Euthanasia of flying foxes trapped sewage in the Environmental environmental authority in orchard nets Protection Act 1994 applications »» Springbrook wireless sensor network
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 30 »» Unexploded ordinance: »» EPA bulletin »» Natural resource management: “Area management advice” for »» Healthy waterways happenings Managing beekeeping on EPA land potentially affected by UXO managed lands »» Nature refuge news »» Unexploded ordinance: »» Natural resource management: »» Time & place UXO investigation and remedial Practical boundary interpretation »» Wave reports ‘on-line’ search contractors for commercial crab fishery areas »» Weedspotters newsletter »» Visitor management: Fee in Bowling Green Bay exemptions for vehicle access »» Wild times »» Parks Division: Remote permits on EPA managed Operational policies bushwalking advice and recreation areas notification »» Administration: Amendments of »» Visitor management: Fee Newsletters and journals permits for QPWS-managed areas exemptions for vehicle permits on »» Air quality bulletins: »» Community and other Agency QPWS managed recreation areas Central Queensland dealings: Firearms shooting ranges »» Visitor management: Approval to »» Air quality bulletins: »» Conservation management: bring flowers onto EPA managed North Queensland pest plant and pathogen spread areas »» Air quality bulletins: prevention »» Visitor management: Visitor use South-east Queensland »» Conservation management: of Cedar Bay National Park and the Austrobaileya »» management of pests on EPA adjoining Great Barrier Reef Coast »» Bush telegraph managed areas Marine Park »» Clean and healthy air for »» Corporate management: Procedural Guides Gladstone community newsletter EPA blue card requirements when working with children »» Requests for information by »» The compass: new directions in the Office of the Minister Queensland industry »» Development and infrastructure: Communications facilities on »» EcoBiz bulletin EPA estate »» Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program
practices these gases are mainly »» Scope 1 - emissions that occur Environmental reported as carbon dioxide equivalent directly from sources which are sustainability report emissions (CO2-e). owned or controlled by an organisation (for example, Carbon emissions report The Queensland Government continues emissions from departmental
The Environmental Protection to develop and improve whole-of- vehicles, on-site diesel generators, Agency committed to supporting the Government data collection processes gas boilers, etc.); Queensland Government’s Q2 target and systems to standardise reporting »» Scope 2 -emissions that occur to cut Queensland’s greenhouse gas of its greenhouse gas emissions. indirectly due solely to an emissions by one third by 2020. This The basis for this reporting is consistent organisation’s consumption of commitment included implementation with acknowledged national and electricity or steam or heating/ of the Government’s climate change international standards, including the cooling (which has been generated and other environmental strategies. definitions outlined in the AS ISO by the burning of fuels such as 14064 standards and the Australian coal, natural gas, etc. at power Six gases have been identified under Government’s National Greenhouse stations or other facilities not the Kyoto Protocol as the main Accounts Factors Workbook November controlled by the organisation); and 2008. These standards establish the greenhouse gas emissions that need »» Scope 3 - emissions that occur following different categories of to be reduced. The gases are carbon indirectly due to actions of the emissions that organisations (such as dioxide, hydrofluorocarbons, methane, organisation, but from sources government agencies) need to consider, nitrous oxides, perfluorocarbons which are not owned or controlled taking into account the particular and sulphur hexafluoride. As part by the organisation. organisation’s operational boundaries: of standard emission measurement
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 31 Some common examples of these sources include employee business Greenhouse gas Activity Notes emissions travel (in vehicles or aircraft not (tonnes of CO2-e) owned or controlled by the Scope 1 QFleet vehicles 1 2432 (estimated) reporting organisation) employees 2042 (actual) commuting to and from work; Owned vehicles 2 806 out-sourced activities; and transportation of products, Non – Transport Gas 3 47 THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE materials and waste. Refrigerant Losses in Building & Note: inclusion of these emissions Vehicle air conditioning/ Fridge/ Freezer/coolers 4 184 in any reporting needs to be based Scope 2 on the relevance to the operations Electricity consumption – purchased directly from of the organisation. electricity retailer 5 2760
Electricity consumption - sourced For the EPA the key greenhouse through a third party 6 1222 emissions were those that were linked Scope 3 Electricity line loses to the following business activities: (purchased directly from retailer) 7 394 »» vehicle usage Electricity line loses (third party) 7 175 »» electricity consumption Domestic air travel on »» air travel commercial airlines 8 430 International travel on As the lead Agency for Climate Change, commercial airlines 8 27 the EPA committed to developing Taxis 9 30 a comprehensive Carbon Emissions Reimbursed Mileage 10 17 Inventory for the 2008-09 year. This Extraction, Refinement and Supply 11 6 included identifying the operational of Non Transport Gas boundaries for the department and Hired vehicles identifying all additional Scope 1 - Avis 12 49 and 3 emissions for which data could be reasonably and reliably collated. Queensland Government department to The above table outlines the emissions This enabled the EPA to calculate its do so. relating to the EPA during the period emissions for these additional items: 1 July 2008 to 31 March 2009. It should be noted that comprehensive Notes: Scope1. »» Non transport gas 1. The CO2-e emissions figure for the period 1 July reporting of greenhouse gas emissions 2008 to 31 March 2009 has been aggregated »» Refrigerant losses in building and by agencies is sometimes limited due using National Greenhouse Emissions Reporting vehicles air conditioning, fridges, (NGER) guidelines and represents emissions for to the complexity of the operational four primary fuel types: unleaded petrol, diesel, freezers and coolers boundaries of agencies within the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and E10. In the absence of comprehensive fuel consumption »» Electricity transmission line public sector, especially in situations records (emissions reported in the 2007-2008 losses associated with the supply where internal government shared Annual Report were calculated based on kilometres travelled) both actual emissions of electricity service providers are used. based on available records and total estimated emissions are shown. »» Taxis 2. Owned vehicles - This data relates only to fuel » Reimbursed mileage While the best available data has been data for vehicles, vessels and other sundry » purposes where this fuel has been purchased used, in some instances estimates have »» Emissions associated with the on a fuel card. It does not include QFleet related been reported due to the limitation of fuel purchases or bulk fuel purchases. extraction, refinement and supply 3. Non transport gas relates to LPG consumption data collection systems, for example on non transport gas in stationary items (such as barbecues and in government-owned buildings where hot water systems). Fuel consumption has been extrapolated from the Agency’s identified there are multiple tenants and the financial spend on LPG. These are included in the emissions electricity usage cannot be attributed 4. Refrigerant leakage relates to the gases that are table featured right. used in refrigeration and air conditioning units. to a single agency, the Department These gases have a very high global warming of Public Works (DPW) calculates the potential. The Agency has audited a range To ensure that there was transparency of its facilities across the state to determine electricity usage by tenanted agencies items, refrigerant type and quantity of gas. The and robustness around its inventory, Agency has based assumptions on this data to based on the percentage of the leased the EPA committed to have its Carbon determine the estimated emissions from the floor area occupied. leakage of these gases Emissions Inventory assured, the first
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 32
Notes: Scope 2 Notes: Scope 3 9. The CO2-e emissions from annual staff business 5. Electricity – Directly Purchased electricity - This 7. The emissions from the generation of electricity travel for taxi fares were determined for the 01 figure is based on actual electricity consumption that is consumed during transmission and July 2008 to 31 March 2009. The estimation of records currently available to the Department distribution are calculated as Scope 3. taxi travel is limited to taxi receipts and cab- of Public Works for the period 1 July 2008 to 31 Transmission and distribution losses are defined charge voucher reimbursements under a specific March 2009. Incomplete electricity consumption as the emissions from the extraction, production cost element. records have been extrapolated to produce an and transport of fuels used in the production of This data has been converted to kilometres estimated electricity consumption figure up to 31 the purchased electricity (i.e. fugitive emissions travelled to allow litres of fuel to be calculated. March 2009. and stationary and mobile fuel combustion The total kilometres travelled were calculated All electricity consumption has been converted emissions) and also the emissions associated by dividing the total expenditure by the cost to carbon emissions using the Scope 2 with the electricity lost in transmission and per kilometre. All taxis were assumed to be
conversion factor of 0.91 kg CO2-e/kWh as distribution on the way to the consumer (from LPG only. Figures were converted to litres using recommended in the Australian Government’s both fuel combustion and fuel extraction.) the fuel consumption rates from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors All transmission loss emissions have been Greenhouse Office Factors and Methods
November 2008. converted to carbon emissions using the Scope Workbook 2006. Litres were converted to CO2-e
6. Electricity - Data sourced from third party - This 3 conversion factor of 0.13 kilograms of CO2-e emissions using emission factors for fuel from figure is for emissions associated with electricity per kilowatt hour as recommended in the the Australian Government National Greenhouse use where the Department of Public Works pays Australian Government’s National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors November 2008. either the landlord or supply authority directly. Accounts (NGA) Factors November 2008. 10.The emissions from annual staff business travel It does not include data for leases where the 8. Air travel includes all flights recorded by the in private vehicles through reimbursed mileage agency pays the energy retailer directly (see Queensland Government Chief Procurement is determined for the 01 July 2008 to 31 March footnote 4 above). Office (QGCPO) during the period 1 July 2008 2009. The estimation of private vehicle travel This figure is based on actual electricity to 31 March 2009, specifically: is limited to claims made using the Kilometric consumption from currently available records of (1) International air travel on all airlines; allowance form under a specific cost element. electricity accounts received by the Department (2) Domestic air travel on both the mainline The total kilometres travelled was determined of Public Works applicable to the period 1 July ‘trunk’ carriers (i.e. the Qantas Group and by dividing the total expenditure for reimbursed 2008 to 31 March 2009. Where full year records Virgin Blue) kilometres by the state government vehicle were not available, data has been apportioned/ (3) Domestic air travel on smaller, allowance cost per kilometre. All private vehicle extrapolated to provide an estimate of electricity regional carriers. use was assumed to be fuelled by petrol only. consumption up to 31 March 2009. It does not For all air travel (with the exception noted at b) The total litre consumption of petrol annually include data for buildings that were leased below) the following methodology is used: for business travel by private vehicles was privately by the EPA and excludes premises (a) From data provided the QGCPO calculates the calculated by multiplying the total kilometres where the EPA ceased tenancy during the 2008- kilometres flown. The kilometre figure is divided travelled by the fuel consumption rates for 09 financial year. by 100 and multiplied by an industry average petrol passenger vehicles (source: Australian For major office premises owned by the number of litres of fuel burnt per passenger, Greenhouse Office Factors and Methods
Department of Public Works where no separate per 100 kilometres. A factor of 5 has been Workbook 2006). Litres were converted to CO2-e sub-metering exists the carbon emissions used for all air travel. The use of this method emissions using emission factors for fuel from associated with electricity consumption have gives the average litres of fuel burnt for a flight, the Australian Government National Greenhouse been apportioned 45 per cent to the owner and per passenger. This figure is subsequently Accounts (NGA) Factors November 2008. 55 per cent to the tenants. converted from litres into kilograms and then 11.Non-transport gas emissions for the EPA cover In 2007-2008 the Annual Report included from kilograms into tonnes, before being the emissions associated with producing and emissions linked to actual electricity multiplied by 3.157 (which represents the supplying the non-transport gas consumed by
consumption plus an added component to take amount of CO2 tonnes produced by burning the EPA Scope 1 operations. Emission factor account of the electricity consumption used by one tonne of aviation fuel; sourced from the was sourced from Australian Greenhouse Office the owner to provide central services. The added International Civil Aviation Organisation). Factors and Methods Workbook 2006. component of electricity consumption is deemed (b) For domestic flights with Qantas, 12.The hire car vehicle emissions show only a Scope 3 emission for tenants and has not been QantasLink, Jetstar and Virgin Blue for the emissions for AVIS vehicles booked under reported this year. period 01 July 2008 to 31 December 2008 Standing Offer Arrangement managed by the the number of passengers per sector was Queensland Government Chief Procurement calculated. This information was then passed Office. on to the respective airline for calculation of carbon emissions.
The Agency welcomed these new policy As part of this process, the EPA initiated Carbon neutrality positions as it supported the Agency’s development of its carbon emissions and energy own internal initiatives around energy inventory (greenhouse gas emissions Significant changes took place in the minimisation, resource conservation inventory) in the 2007–08 year. To government policy landscape around and fuel efficiency. develop a robust, assurable emissions inventory the Agency also developed the issues of greenhouse gas emissions Carbon neutrality at the federal, state and Agency level. a carbon emissions manual, which The Commonwealth Government The EPA committed itself to achieving outlined the scope, assumptions and has become a signatory to the Kyoto carbon neutrality for the 2008–09 calculations used in the development of Protocol. The Queensland Government financial year, the first Queensland the inventory. has committed to a range of Cabinet Government agency to do so. Becoming The Agency took the additional step decisions affecting government energy carbon neutral is not a mandated of seeking a limited assurance from use, vehicle emissions and air travel. target, but was being undertaken to Pricewaterhouse Coopers for the 2007- Both federal and state governments demonstrate leadership to business and 08 Carbon Inventory and methodology. now require large energy users to the public sector. The EPA also committed to having its report on their energy consumption 2008-09 emissions inventory assured and reduction measures. when finalised.
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 33 While the Queensland Government set initiatives across the state. consumption by approximately targets for reduction or offsetting of The carbon champions provided 30 000 kilowatt hours per annum some emissions over the coming years, strong leadership with the (a 12 per cent reduction). the EPA committed to avoid, reduce or “Switch off and Save” program. »» Renewable energy generation offset all of its emissions for this year to »» Toowoomba The Agency continued to support be a carbon neutral organisation. In July 2008, the Toowoomba the use of renewable energy, which Regional Office relocated to a is a tangible demonstration of its Avoidance activities undertaken by the
refurbished building at 173 Hume leadership. In the past year, the ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE EPA included signing up all Agency Street, which was awarded a EPA approved and commenced sites to purchase 100% GreenPowerTM four-star GreenStar rating by the development of a stand-alone which accounts for approximately one Green Building Council of Australia power supply (SPS) facility for third of its emissions. (GBCA), indicating it achieved Dundubara on Fraser Island. This is environmental best practice. a 22 kilowatt system and is the To offset those emissions that it cannot The new building has been fitted largest remote power facility on the avoid or reduce the EPA has engaged to minimise energy and water EPA estate. The SPS will have a Ecofund Queensland to undertake a consumption where possible. significant impact on the reduction carbon offset portfolio analysis and Skylights reduce the need for of green-house gas emissions provide a recommended approach to artificial lighting, and the new saving up to 30 000 litres of diesel purchasing carbon offsets for the 2008- efficient, zoned lighting, reduces fuel per year (81 tonnes CO2-e) and 09 financial year. energy use by a further 40 per cent. reduce generator run-time to less than 10 hours per day. Energy Air-conditioning energy consumption has been minimised The EPA has been involved in several Efficient transport by delivering fresh air direct to initiatives in the final reporting period The diverse nature of the Agency’s each workstation and allowing to reduce its energy consumption, operations, much of it conducted individual control of air volume for example: in regional, rural and remote areas and direction. »» Carbon Neutral Project of Queensland, inevitably required » Manly An energy reduction strategy that » extensive use of motor vehicles. Purpose-built by the Port of started in March with a “Switch Off Consequently, wherever possible Brisbane Corporation for the and Save” month. This involved a the aim was to reduce the distances operational requirements of the number of initiatives for staff travelled and reduce the impact of our Moreton Bay District Office of including turning off lights when travel by using alternative fuels and Queensland Parks & Wildlife, the not being used, turning off office appropriate fuel-efficient and lower- Manly building has been designed equipment, switching off phone emission vehicles. and built to achieve a five-star chargers and turning off kitchen Green Star rating by the GBCA. appliances at the end of the day, QFleet has introduced the QFleet The building incorporates energy which resulted in saving the agency Climate Smart Action Plan 2007–2010, efficient lighting and high ceilings an estimated 17 325 kilowatt hours which sets overall targets for emission with floor to ceiling glazing that or 18 tonnes of greenhouse reductions from the government vehicle increase natural light penetration, gas emissions. fleet of 15 per cent reduction by 2010, an air-conditioning system is »» Carbon Champions 25 per cent by 2012 and 50 per cent cooled by adjacent sea water to As part of the Agency’s by 2017. Under this plan, individual minimise freshwater and energy commitment to reducing energy departmental targets have been use, and rainwater is harvested for consumption by between 40-50 per negotiated to recognise the initiatives toilet amenities and boat washing. cent by 2018, the Agency sought already undertaken and the capacity for Rockhampton staff to volunteer to be ‘carbon »» departments to change. The Agency’s The EPA Rockhampton office champions’ to help motivate staff, proposed target under this plan was a commenced a lighting retrofit with identify local opportunities and 16 per cent reduction by 2010. work to be completed by the end of support the implementation of the financial year. This retrofit is Agency wide programs. The Agency In the final reporting period, the expected to reduce the had 68 carbon champions to help Agency fuel consumption for its QFleet Rockhampton Office’s energy support the implementation of Vehicles was 802 870 litres. At March,
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 34 the Agency had 29 hybrid vehicles to the 2007–08 year. These savings are Queensland Government Purchasing operate within the fleet. Alternative in part due to the increased deployment Arrangement required to provide vehicles, such as small diesel vehicles of water efficient devices and the a recycling option on request for that also have a high fuel economy, replacement of mains water with returned items. continued to be assessed as alternative rain water for specific services. »» Fluorescent tube recycling fit for purpose vehicles for the Agency. The Agency continued to trial Resource consumption and new waste and resource recovery Under the QFleet Action Plan, all new waste management initiatives. A fluorescent tube vehicles leased were required to meet collection program commenced at minimum greenhouse gas ratings of The EPA Strategic Waste Management the Rockhampton Office and was five and a half stars for passenger Plan continues to promote the used extensively during the lighting vehicles and three and a half stars for efficient use of resources to reduce retrofit of that facility. commercial vehicles under the Green the environmental impact of Agency »» Mobile phones Vehicle Guide. The Agency set higher activities. The plan shifts the focus The Brisbane office continued to internal requirements beyond the from end-use practices such as operate a program to collect QFleet target of six stars for passenger standard office recycling, to reviewing obsolete and unserviceable mobile vehicles and four stars for commercial the supply chain, extended producer phones (both work and personal). vehicles (other than fire vehicles). responsibility and specific waste Once collected, the phones were materials that may have a greater sent to the Aussie Recycling The Agency had 27 vehicles that environmental impact. Program (ARP) where they were did not meet the QFleet minimum Specific actions include: remanufactured and sold. A portion requirements. As these vehicles come »» Paper consumption of the profits from the sale was to the end of their lease term they will At the end of the reporting period, passed on to the Queensland be replaced with vehicles that meet the the Agency had purchased Cerebral Palsy League. The Agency mandatory requirements. approximately 12 032 reams (A4 recycled a range of phones and The Agency continued to support and and A3 white office paper). associated phone items promote the use of ethanol blended This is equivalent to approximately (approximately eight kilograms in E10 fuel internally within the Agency. 5.2 reams of paper per full-time weight) through this process by the The Agency purchased 37 758 litres equivalent (FTE) employee in end of the reporting period. for the final reporting period. 2008–09. »» Toner and printer This represents 28 per cent of unleaded »» Electronic waste (e-waste) cartridge recycling petrol fuel purchases, a slight increase The Agency aimed to minimise The Agency continued to operate in proportion over last year’s purchases. the environmental impact of toner recycling programs (such as obsolete equipment by ensuring recycling toner bottles from Water management that the maximum amount of photocopiers and recycling toner equipment was recycled. cartridges from printers and fax Based on the sites reported on last This year, e-waste recycling machines) as part of the wider year, the Agency continued to reduce continued to be supported, with application of increased office its mains water consumption this approximately 4390 kilograms of recycling practices. At least one year. For sites where comparative material recycled from Southern of these recycling programs was data is available for both financial Regional Office, Rockhampton, used in all major Agency facilities. years these sites have reduced their Townsville, Cairns and Central More than 850 toner cartridges consumption by an estimated 525.7 Office operations. The success and bottles from across the kilolitres (based on annualised figures), of the e-waste recycling has Agency were sent for either which represents a reduction in water continued, with all vendors remanufacturing or recycling consumption of 6.5 per cent compared supplying personal computers during the final reporting period. to the government under the
Workforce sustainability trainee staff. This is reported as 2327.5 Agency structure, values, culture and Full-time Equivalent (FTE) staff. functions by requiring them to attend report a comprehensive two-and-a-half day At 26 March 2009, the EPA employed The Agency ensured new employees orientation program. All permanent 2449 permanent, temporary, casual and received vital information about employees and temporary employees
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 35 working with the Agency for 12 months June 2008 At 26 March 2009 or longer were required to attend this program. In this final reporting period, Occupational stream Headcount FTE Headcount FTE 184 employees attended this program. Administrative 929 884.6 1001 943.6 Operational 15 8.7 16 9.6 Workforce statistics Professional 570 542.3 547 525.0
The information reported is referred Ranger 810 774.3 807 773.8 THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE to as Minimum Obligatory Human Technical 82 80.2 78 75.5
Resource Information (MOHRI) data Trainee 4 3.6 - - and this data has been sourced from Other - - - - the MOHRI system. Full-time Equivalent (FTE) is based on the equivalent of a Total 2410 2293.7 2449 2327.5 full-time paid employee. superannuation and flexible working FTEs for casual employees reflect what Equal employment practices. For those unable to attend, hours they worked in the preceding opportunities information on the workshops was pay fortnight. Casuals not paid in that The Agency was committed to provided on-line via the Agency’s fortnight are not included. developing the potential of all intranet and regional delivery was Employees on leave without pay are not employees, particularly those identifying coordinated through Corporate included in Headcount or FTE figures. with target groups in recognition of past Sustainability. A total of 35 women disadvantage that may have occurred. attended these workshops. At 30 June 2008, there were 78 The Agency was a major sponsor in the employees on leave without pay. Smart Women–Smart State awards and As part of the Agency Workforce At 26 March 2009, there were 81 the Agency sponsored a Green Award Sustainability strategy, the Agency employees on leave without pay. category as part of its commitment to sponsored and coordinated a Tri-agency Administrative Stream Equivalent recognising and rewarding excellence Women’s Conference incorporating is a categorisation of salary based in sustainability. senior women across the Department on the administrative stream levels of Primary Industries and Fisheries, in the Public Service Award—State. The Multicultural Action Plan and Department of Mines and Energy, Determination of the category is made Disability Service Plan were both Brisbane City Council and the EPA. using the dollar value of the employee’s reviewed and the updated plans The conference was a great success and standard full-time pay rate in relation were published on the website. has created an ongoing networking to the top paypoint of the administrative Recommendations of the review of tool across government. As part of this stream levels. Indigenous Employment and program the Agency also implemented Development Strategies were the My Mentor Pilot for 32 women Between June 2000 and June 2008, a implemented, including encouraging across regional and central office. This number of initiatives have contributed and supporting Indigenous study program currently runs across the state to increasing the number of rangers through 100 per cent payment of the and has created an informal network of employed by the Agency from 504 Higher Education Loan Program fees. women across the former agency. rangers to 774 rangers. Each year the overall number of permanent staff employed by the Agency across the Women’s initiatives Flexible work practices state remains relatively constant. The Women comprised 41.4 per cent of decrease in ranger numbers at the close The Agency supported employees the total Agency workforce with of the reporting period is a result of achieving a better balance between 20 per cent of Senior Officer positions more than 38 temporary and 12 casual work, family and other responsibilities and Senior Executive Service positions positions finishing during the period. by providing flexible work options such held by women. Most of these positions were associated as working from home, purchased leave with temporary funding for natural and part-time work arrangements. The Agency focussed on empowering disaster restoration projects in women through provision of Recent data was collected through North Queensland. information. Supporting this theme, an Agency Pulse Survey on the use workshops were conducted on topics of flexible work arrangements and such as maternity and other leave, employees work times, to identify future
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 36 areas of development and focus on approach. Under the Ageing Workforce received Code of Conduct training meeting current government priorities program and healthy work life, the through the on-line induction program as outlined in the Toward Q2 strategy. Phased Retirement program encouraged on the Agency’s intranet. This initiative formed part of the Agency our mature age workers to consider Workforce Sustainability strategy. At 26 the use of flexible work practices to Whistleblowers Protection March 2009, 190 permanent employees gradually reduce their workload as a Act 1994 had part-time work agreements in phased retirement approach rather than place (9.4 per cent of all permanent complete retirement. In accordance with the legislative employees) and 10 employees had taken requirements of the Crime and advantage of the Agency’s purchased Misconduct Act 2001, all matters Voluntary Early Retirement leave arrangements whereby they could of alleged official misconduct were arrange to increase the amount of No Voluntary Early Retirement reported to the Crime and Misconduct recreational leave taken and have their (VER) packages were offered during Commission during the reporting salary paid pro-rata across the year. the final reporting period. period. The Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC) Liaison Officer met Further use of flexible work practices with the Commission on a regular basis was promoted through “just-in-time” Retrenchments to discuss management of cases where training sessions for employees and No retrenchments were made in the official misconduct was suspected. managers. These sessions incorporated final reporting period. There were no cases during the reporting information for managers and period that the Agency interpreted as employees and encouraged appropriate being public interest disclosures under use of flexible work arrangements. Public Sector Ethics Act and the Whistleblower Protection Act 1994. Information about flexible work Code of Conduct Employees have been advised about practices was also published on the The primary purpose of the Code of their rights under this Act through the Agency’s intranet. Conduct was to outline the Agency’s Agency’s Code of Conduct (on-line expectations and the standards of program or through Orientation). The Agency, in partnership with behaviour required of all staff. the Queensland Government Chief This document described the set of Information Office, engaged in a six- Our commitment to workplace values and business principles that health and safety month pilot program flexible workplaces guided staff in their day-to-day project. Surplus office space in the EPA’s decision making and interactions The Agency continued the Ipswich Regional Office was utilised for with the people of Queensland. implementation of its Workplace Health workers living in the Ipswich area and By working together to improve the and Safety Strategic Plan 2007–2010 working in Brisbane CBD. quality of life of all Queenslanders, with the aim of achieving the Not and by respecting cultures, customs One Not Ever (NONE) strategy of zero An evaluation report demonstrated and social values in our actions, we injuries in the workplace. benefits to employees and EPA as well a could achieve sustainability. quantifying significant carbon savings Training and information sessions and contributions to the Urban Upon the issuing of the Agency’s new continued on legislation obligations Congestion targets. Code of Conduct in 2008, compulsory and the day-to-day operations with Code of Conduct training sessions were emphasis on risk assessment tools, The EPA also committed to participating conducted for all staff throughout contractor management, chemical in the Urban Congestion task force 2008 to ensure that they had a clear management, plant and equipment, pilot through the Transport Department understanding of responsibilities manual handling and ergonomic issues. to encourage further use of flexible in relation to their conduct and Driver behaviour workshops were work arrangements to reduce urban behaviour and could contribute to the implemented as a new initiative. congestion. This is part of the implementation of the Public Sector government’s Towards Q2 commitments. Ethics Act 1994. During this period, Additional strategies implemented to 346 staff attended Code of Conduct assist in the reduction of the manual The Agency also completed a training. In addition, all new employees handling incidents were: Phased Retirement program and were provided with these training »» worksite investigations and published guidelines for our mature age sessions at the Orientation program. evaluations by external health workers to consider a phased retirement Temporary and casual employees professionals where multiple
THE AGENCY’S ACHIEVEMENTS 37 incidents have occurred at the of psychological claims reduced workplace or where individuals have considerably; in fact, for the last Kim Morris been involved in numerous incidents two years, there were no accepted Senior Conservation Officer, to assist in establishing root causes WorkCover statutory claims for stress Conservation Strategy and Planning, and making recommendations on and anxiety. Statutory costs for the Queensland Parks and Wildlife how to prevent further injury. final reporting period amounted to »» task-specific (risk) assessments of approximately $100. Gary Selwood Ranger in Charge, Moreton Bay Region, the activities of large scale projects ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY’S THE (e.g. Great Walks) and then Total payments for statutory claims Marine Parks, Queensland Parks appropriate technique training and (that is, all injury payments for and Wildlife, Cleveland advice to those employees in these WorkCover claims) have reduced for this projects period by 41 per cent ($114 800) from Geoffrey Brittingham the previous year. Regional Manager, Sunshine Coast- »» the development of various Burnett Region, Terrestrial Parks, instructional DVDs (e.g. Therapeutic Recognising our staff Queensland Parks and Wildlife, stretches and exercises to undertake Cotton Tree in the field and at home; Sound 2009 Australia Day ergonomics for your workstation) Achievement Awards John Olds »» Strategies implemented to achieve To mark Australia Day 2009, seventeen Senior Conservation Officer, the Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s deserving Environmental Protection Conservation Strategy and Planning, Queensland aim of making a Healthy Agency staff throughout Queensland Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Queensland are listed below. were honoured with Australia Day Rockhampton »» Voluntary health and wellbeing Achievement Medallions. assessments for permanent staff Keith Watson aged 40 and over were offered in the Ingrid Fomiatti Minnesma (Retired Senior Ranger, Capricornia past two years. Approximately 42 Manager, Far Northern Region, Regional Region), Queensland Parks and Wildlife per cent of all eligible employees Services, Environmental Services, Cairns have participated in these Karen Smith assessments. General reports from Rob Lawrence Senior Conservation Officer, these assessments are then used to Director, Far Northern Region, Conservation Strategy and Planning, implement health and wellbeing Regional Services, Environmental Queensland Parks and Wildlife, strategies for the future to assist Services, Cairns Toowoomba employees in becoming healthier.
»» Quit Smoking workshops. David Robinson Linden Henry »» General health and wellbeing Director, Coastal Sciences, Ranger in Charge, Wet Tropics Region, information sessions were offered Environmental Sciences Terrestrial Parks, Queensland Parks and to employees across the state Wildlife, Cairns (e.g. drug and alcohol awareness Lachlan Hurse sessions, including facts on binge Principal Project Officer, Environmental Peter Harvey drinking, diabetes information, Reporting, Environmental Sciences Senior Ranger, Great Sandy Region, cancer information, nutritional Marine Parks, Queensland Parks and John Mohoupt information). Wildlife, Maryborough Manager, Coastal Sciences, »» Workshops on stress management Environmental Sciences, Deagon Paul Bikaunieks (Building Resilience to Stress) Senior Conservation Officer, Business were offered. Ian Garven and Asset Services, QueenslandParks Acting Director, Conservation and Wildlife, Cairns The influenza vaccination was offered Strategy and Planning, Queensland to all employees. During this reporting Parks and Wildlife Paul Lawless-Pyne period 728 employees were vaccinated. Ranger, Capricornia Region, Rani Jeffers-Hay Terrestrial Parks, Queensland Parks With the Agency’s Early Intervention Acting Conservation Officer, and Wildlife, Rockhampton Program fully implemented for Conservation Strategy and Planning, approximately four years, the number Queensland Parks and Wildlife
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 38
Output performance measures 2008–09
The Output performance measures in the table report against the Outputs in the Strategic Plan 2008–12. The Outputs were approved by the Treasurer for implementation from 1 July 2008. The structure of our Outputs and the Output performance measures aligned directly with the organisational structure and the Agency strategy.
Output performance 39 Output: Conservation and Environmental Services
Measures Notes 2007–08 2008–09 2008–09 2008–09 Actual Target at Actual at End of 30 March 30 March year Est. 2009 2009 Actual OUTPUT PERFORMANCE Number of camping areas open in national parks and 447 447 447 447 state forests.
Percentage of statewide ranger establishment 1 5% 5% 4% 5% nominated as Indigenous.
Percentage of Cape York ranger establishment 2 20% 20% 29% 30% nominated as Indigenous by 30 June 2009.
Number of recycling systems implemented at major 3 New 10 6 19 public sites. measure
Number of planned compliance inspections of sites 4 (Note: carrying out regulated activities: Industrial estate and other planned inspections)
Level A (basic inspections) A 400 A 700 A 956 A 1100 Level B (condition audit) B 500 B250 B 409 B 420 Level C (performance audit). C 100 C 15 C 21 C 21
Number of planned industrial estate inspections 15 19 22 24 to provide characterisation of actual and potential environmental impact of estate and to access compliance of individual sites with environmental standards.
Percentage of enhanced Land and Pest Management New 70% 70% 90% Plans completed in accordance with best practice measure management of fire, weeds and pests on EPA-managed lands.
Percentage of quality management assessments of 5 100% n/a n/a n/a national parks completed (Rapid Assessment Program) every two years.
Percentage of EPA actions in the Queensland Tourism 6 90% 70% 70% 100% strategy completed on schedule and in accordance with the strategy.
Percentage of capital works completed in accordance 7 93% 60% 60% 90% with project plan.
Percentage of environmental authorities, development 8 90% 98% 93% 100% approvals and other approvals administered by the EPA that meet statutory timeframes.
Percentage of valid environmental complaints 9 86% 90% 88% 90% responded to within stated timeframes (five business days).
Deliver intensive air monitoring programs in:
Townsville Planning Record air Townsville Completed completed quality data Monitoring completed Gladstone Monitoring commenced Gladstone continuing
Maintenance investment per camper night for visitor 10 New $15.80 $11.69 $13.80 infrastructure in parks and forests. measure
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 40 Output: Sustainable Futures
Measures Notes 2007–08 2008–09 2008–09 2008–09 Est. Actual Target at Actual at End of 30 March 30 March year Est. 2009 2009 Actual
Number of Premier’s Council on Climate Change 11 2 1 1 2 meetings convened each year.
Number of Council-sponsored projects resulting 11 1 1 1 3 from Premier’s Council on Climate Change meetings completed each year.
Percentage of Climate Change Impact Statements New 100% 100% 100% included in all relevant Cabinet, CBRC and Budget measure submissions from July 2008.
Number of ecoBiz participants who have completed the 12 24 38 37 40 six steps of eco-efficiency and achieved partner status.
Tonnes reduction of greenhouse impact resulting from 13 30 000 31 500 25 690 25 690 ecoBiz Program.
Number of hectares of Queensland gazetted as Nature 650 000 730 961 730 961 750 980 Refuge.
New 2 surveys 2 surveys 2 Stakeholder satisfaction with quality and timeliness of measure and 100% completed policy advice is monitored bi-annually. satisfaction = 100% satisfaction
Achieve a 3:1 private to public investment ratio for 14 New Annual Annual 3:1 projects supported by the Queensland Sustainable measure measure measure Energy Innovation Fund.
Percentage of Queensland Heritage Register 100% 100% 100% 100% recommendations referred to the Queensland Heritage Council within statutory timeframes.
Percentage of heritage development applications 100% 100% 100% 100% determined by EPA within statutory timeframes.
Percentage of concurrence agency obligations under the New 100% 100% 100% Koala Conservation Plan met within IPA timeframes. measure
Allocate 1000 grid-connected solar power systems to 15 New 1000 1000 1000 Queensland households in: measure Measure South East Queensland completed Toowoomba Fraser Coast Rockhampton Cairns by 1 December 2008, saving an estimated 1700 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year.
OUTPUT PERFORMANCE 41 Output: Performance and Capability
Measures Notes 2007–08 2008–09 2008–09 2008–09 Est. Actual Target at 30 Actual at End of March 2009 30 March year Est. 2009 Actual
Number of customised ecosystems maps downloaded 16 55 000 48 000 43 476 80 000 OUTPUT PERFORMANCE from the EPA website each year.
Number of hectares of vegetation communities and 17 7 000 000 4 633 000 3 933 000 7 000 000 ecosystems mapped each year.
Percentage of South East Queensland major waterways 90% 90% 90% 90% represented in EPA water management programs.
Number of publications (books, reports and plans) available for download from the EPA website each year.
air 41 60 52 69 biodiversity 61 65 44 65 coasts 36 39 39 40 greenhouse 3 4 4 5 marine 34 38 41 40 water 76 165 126 200
Number of science data sets supplied to external 18 500 18 000 18 642 20 000 stakeholders each year.
Percentage of CO2-e offset to achieve a carbon neutral EPA. 14 New measure 100% Annual 100% measure
Number of refereed scientific papers published each year. 45 42 46 55
Percentage of Queenslanders who perceive EPA as a 14 New measure Annual Annual n/a trustworthy source of information. measure measure
Percentage of externally-funded research projects New measure 95% 95% 95% delivered within agreed timeframes.
Number of air quality monitoring stations operating throughout Queensland.
South East Queensland 14 14 15 15 Central Queensland 5 9 7 8 Northern Queensland. 4 9 9 9
Average operating costs of an air quality monitoring $34 000 $25 500 $26 407 $34 000 station each year (includes labour).
Cost of vegetation survey and mapping (1:100 000 scale) $0.52 $0.75 $0.75 $0.80 per hectare.
Notes: including the northern wet season and flooding in western parks will have 1. At the end of the 3rd quarter of 2008-09 financial year, this measure was some affect on future performance. Other issues such as complications with less than estimated. The annual target is unlikely to be met in full. The planning approvals, contractor unavailability, negotiations with Traditional limitation in this performance measure is that employees may nominate Owners will also affect 4th quarter performance as indigenous on a voluntary basis. If an employee chooses not to identify 8. Variance reflects data entry and problems in retrieving data from the data as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person they will not appear in the management system. The estimated service delivery level is >98%. During data used to report on the performance measure unless they occupy an the quarter the agency processed approximately 800 applications. Indigenous specified or Indigenous identified position. 9. Variance reflects problems in retrieving data from the data management 2. Exceeded target. It is expected the figure for Cape York will continue to trend system. The estimated service delivery level is >90%. During the quarter the upwards as conversion of several existing national parks and dedication of new agency responded to more than 780 complaints. areas as “National Parks (Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land)” will create 10. Camper numbers increased during 2008–09, resulting in index of additional employment and training opportunities for Traditional Owners. investment per camper being lower than anticipated. 3. Facilities permanently installed at four stadiums and two shopping centres. 11. Scheduled meetings were postponed due to the State election within this A further four shopping centres are expected to come on-line by June 2009. reporting period. This also affected the number of council sponsored Temporary facilities have been used at 35 public events and festivals – projects. exceeding expectations. 12. Measure is on track to reach end of year target. 4. Level B inspection targets were reset at the second quarter due to the focus 13. Figures estimated are based on the potential CO2 emission savings for planned compliance inspections being on industrial estates where the identified by participants who have received ecoBiz rebate funding. At the majority of facilities are lower risk. The new targets were exceeded in the final reporting period we were unlikely to meet end of year target for 2008- third quarter (as at 30 March 2009). 09 due to reduced rebate participation. 5. Assessments are conducted biennially (every two years). The next 14. This was an annual measure with no actual data available at the close of assessment was due to take place during 2009–10. this reporting period. Agency performance was anticipated to be on track to 6. Best Practice Sustainable Tourism package has required updating with achieve this target by the end of the financial year. new climate change material and is now subject to new web publishing 15. This measure was achieved by 1 December 2008 and will be discontinued in guidelines. Delays may affect meeting end of year target. the next financial year. 7. As at the third quarter QPWS were on track against estimated performance, 16. Fewer customer requests were received in the 3rd quarter. with an expectation that performance would reach the target for the 4th 17. Extreme weather conditions in north and north-west Queensland during the quarter. However, the Moreton Bay oil spill and seasonal influences final reporting period have affected the field work component of this project.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 42 Financial Summary
Financial results 2004–05 2005–06 2006–07 2007–08* 2008–09* $M $M $M $M $M
Operating surplus/ (0.474) (2.161) 2.576 9.041 4.023 (deficit)
Total expenses 269.293 287.352 303.723 333.829 303.812
Total revenues 268.820 285.191 306.299 342.870 307.835
Output revenue 214.907 237.440 264.578 283.774 263.441
Net assets 2 738.132 3 128.887 3 065.291 3 426.396 3 354.119
Cash assets 12.298 18.662 18.874 31.009 30.115
Asset acquisitions 30.477 19.124 50.930 37.459 21.541
*As per financial statements 1 July 2008 to 26 March 2009
The operating result for the period to 26 March 2009 was a net surplus of $4 million. This reflects funding for Output revenue surplus to actual expense and that the statement period is part way through the annual budget cycle. EPA assets exceeded liabilities by $3.35 billion. Comparative years are the full year amount as at 30 June.
Expenses
Total expenses for the period to 26 March 2009 were $304 million, an increase of 22 per cent on 75 per cent of the previous year amount. Expenses are predominately employee expenses (43 per cent), Supplies and services (29 per cent) and depreciation and amortisation (13 per cent). The high depreciation expense reflects the significant value of infrastructure and plant and equipment held by the Agency.
Finances 43 Total controlled expenses Revenues
0.1% 1.1% 0.2% Total revenues for the period to 13.3% FINANCES 26 March 2009 were $308 million, an increase of 20 per cent on 75 per cent Employee expenses $131.25M 43.3% Supplies and services $89.15M 29.3% of the previous year amount. Output 12.7% revenue that reflects State Government Grants and subsidies $38.74M 12.7% 43.3% appropriation for operating expenses Depreciation and amortisation $40.28M 13.3% Finance/Borrowing costs $0.19M 0.1% represents 86 per cent of total revenues. Other expenses $3.48M 1.4% This reflects that the Agency relies Loss on sale of property, heavily on government appropriation plant and equipment $0.47M 0.2% to fund the delivery of its services. 29.3% The remaining revenue reflects user charges and grants and other revenue Total controlled revenue from external sources. 3.4% 0.8% 9.1%
Asset Acquisitions 1.1%
During the year to 26 March 2009, Output revenue $263.44M 85.6%
$21.5 million was spent on asset User charges $3.27M 1.1% acquisitions. Works in progress Fees, Permits and Fines $10.61M 3.4% representing buildings and infrastructure Grants and other contributions $28.06M 9.1% 85.6% under construction make up 62 per cent Other revenue $2.46M 0.8% of this expenditure or $13 million. Land acquisitions make up 18 per cent.
Assets Property, plant and equipment — net book value 1.5% At the end of the period to 16.5% 26 March 2009 assets were valued at $3.4 billion. Property, plant and 5.2% Land $545.47M 16.5% equipment was valued at $3.3 billion, 42.5% Buildings $170.95M 5.2% including $1.95 billion in land and Infrastructure $1 119.36M 33.8% heritage and cultural assets, including Plant and equipment (general) $16.92M 0.5% Heritage and Cultural assets national parks. The cash balance as at including national parks $1 405.27M 42.5% this date was $30 million. Total asset 33.8% Capital works in progress $50.10M 1.5% values have decreased by $63 million 0.5% from the 2007–08 financial year. The value of Property, plant and equipment value has declined by $12.5 million. From 2008–09, the The growth in expenses reflects the $93 million, primarily due to Agency is required to pay a levy to the growth in funding from government. revaluation decrements in Annual Leave Central Scheme to fund There has been minor decrease in land of $168 million offset by the annual recreation leave liability asset values relative to the total asset revaluation increments in buildings now managed on a whole-of- base primarily due to recent land and infrastructure of $73 million. Government basis. revaluation decrements.
Liabilities Financial position and outlook Liabilities were valued at $44.5 million Operating surpluses have more than as at 26 March 2009. Of this amount offset deficits over the past five financial Accrued employee benefits were years, reflecting that the Agency is $14 million including a payable for the managing within funding. Annual Leave Central Scheme levy of
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 44 Consultancy expenditure: 2008–2009
Category 2007–08* 2008–09* ($) ($) (final period)
Information technology 0 0
Management 18 000 30 000
Financial 0 0
Scientific and technical 224 295 120 720
Human resource management 0 0
Communication 19 461 0
Total 261 756 150 720
* Figures rounded to nearest dollar. Figures do not include GST.
Overseas travel for 2008–2009
Name and Destination Reason for travel Agency Contribution from other position of cost agencies or sources officer
John Neldner, China Visited China’s Daxing’anling Forest Region 377 Unknown Heilongjiang Province Chief Scientist within the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Government Explored opportunities for collaborative scientific work with representatives of the Daxing’anling Wild Animals and Plants Reservation Office and the Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Presented and discussed unit’s research and assessment programs, monitoring and information systems.
Nigel J Spain Attended the 4th World Conservation Congress 6429 Hedgcock, in Barcelona to gain knowledge and exchange Manager information about contemporary international conservation policy developments relevant to the Wet Tropics WHA. The Congress supports international partnerships/networks to shape innovative solutions to Indigenous bio-cultural diversity, conservation and socio-economic wellbeing.
Jozef Skytus, USA, UK and Facilitated existing collaborative link between 5290 Chief Scientist France QCCCE and the major international climate change research institutes. Visited International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI) in New York to renegotiate the existing MOU and develop details of collaboration with the IRI. Visited the Walker Institute, Reading University UK to review and discuss details of research work plan and areas for further collaboration and staff exchange. Visited UK Meteorological Office to discuss progress and future direction of ACRE project. Attended planning session of the Working Group on Climate Modelling in Paris to discuss and finalise the experiment design for the coordinated climate change experiments for the 5th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Alan Feely, Spain Attended the 4th World Conservation 12 341 3510 Department of Executive Congress in Barcelona to gain knowledge, new Environment and Director ideas, contacts and opportunity to showcase Heritage SA $1755 Queensland’s approach to and Department of marine and terrestrial park management. Environment and Attended the World Commission on Conservation WA Protected Areas—part of the World Conservation $1755 Forum—and associated workshops and events. Visited Spanish protected areas of Montserrat and the Spanish part of the Pyrenees.
FINANCES 45 Name and Destination Reason for travel Agency Contribution from other position of cost agencies or sources officer FINANCES John Ridgway, China Participated and presented at the East-Asia 7043 Senior Director Summit on Climate Change Adaptation Capacity Building as per the invitation from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China. Attended seminar and maintained the international links established with the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Chinese Embassy in Australia.
Yahya Abawi, Papua New Identified data requirements for three projects 3039 Australian Centre Chief Scientist Guinea funded by the Australian Centre for International for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and AusAid and Agricultural Research held discussions with key government agencies (ACIAR) on the implementation of these projects.
Yahya Abawi, Indonesia Participated in the formal review of the project 8692 Australian Centre Chief Scientist by ACIAR scheduled in October. for International Dr Abawi is the leader of three projects funded Agricultural Research by the Australian Centre for International (ACIAR) Agricultural Research and AusAid.
Simon White, Indonesia Travelled with Dr Yahya Abawi to participate 3944 Australian Centre Principal in the formal review of the project by ACIAR for International Scientist scheduled in October. Agricultural Research Dr Abawi is the leader of three projects funded (ACIAR) by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research and AusAid.
Yahya Abawi, Indonesia Participated in the formal review of the project 6586 Australian Centre Chief Scientist by ACIAR scheduled in October. for International Dr Abawi is the leader of three projects funded Agricultural Research by the Australian Centre for International (ACIAR) Agricultural Research and AusAid.
Xike Zhang, China Conducted the reciprocal exchange to scope 4705 Department of Premier Principal out projects, share knowledge and ideas, and and Cabinet Scientist cultivate strategic links between Queensland and China in areas affected or impacted by climate change. Travel required as part of the contractual obligations of the 2008 Queensland–China Climate Fellowship Program.
Peter Ashe, New Zealand Subsidised transfer costs from New Zealand as 3110 Operations part of employment contract. Manager
Yahya Abawi, Papua New Travelled to PNG to complete the handover 1321 Australian Centre Chief Scientist Guinea of project leadership of the ACIAR project for International (Early Warning and Drought Preparedness for Agricultural Research improved Crop Production in PNG) from Dr (ACIAR) Yahya Abawi to David Cobon, which will enable planning of ongoing activities with collaborating government agencies. ACIAR had requested Mr Cobon and Dr Abawi travel together to help facilitate a smooth transition of project leadership.
David Cobon, Papua New Travelled to PNG to complete the handover 1321 Australian Centre Principal Guinea of project leadership of the ACIAR project for International Scientist (Early Warning and Drought Preparedness for Agricultural Research improved Crop Production in PNG) from Dr (ACIAR) Yahya Abawi to David Cobon, which will enable planning of ongoing activities with collaborating government agencies. ACIAR had requested Mr Cobon and Dr Abawi travel together to help facilitate a smooth transition of project leadership.
Totals $34 828 $33 118
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Statutory authorities
Name of entity Departmental or Act under which entity Control of funds statutory body is constituted
Board of Trustees of Statutory Authority Newstead House Trust Act Controls own funds Newstead House 1939
National Trust of Statutory Authority National Trust of Controls own funds Queensland Queensland Act 1963
Queensland Heritage Statutory Authority Queensland Heritage Act No funds controlled Council 1992
Wet Tropics Management Statutory Authority Wet Tropics World Balances Authority Heritage Protection and incorporated in Management Act 1993 Agency financial statements
Appendicies
SECTION 81 »» Gondwana Rainforest of Australia »» Scientific Advisory Group Boards and committees World Heritage Area Technical and for Cloud Seeding »» Animal Ethics Committee Scientific Advisory Committee »» SEQ Regional Coordination Group »» Board of Trustees of »» Heron Island Management Board »» Southern Tourism Industry Forum appendicies Newstead House »» Heron Island Management »» Statewide Tourism Industry Forum Committee »» CEO’s Committee for NRM in SEQ »» Sustainability and Environmental »» Coastal Algal Bloom »» Jurisdictional Projects Group (Qld) Reporting Interdepartmental Reference Group »» Macropod Management Committee »» Coastal Protection Advisory Council Advisory Committee »» Tweed River Entrance »» Collaborative Management Group »» National Trust of Queensland Sand Bypassing Project on Bushwalking »» Northern Tourism Industry Forum Advisory Committee »» Crocodile Egg Ranching »» Premier’s Council on »» Waanyi Ministerial Expert Panel Climate Change Advisory Committee »» Crocodile Management Advisory »» Proserpine Rock Wallaby »» Wet Tropics Community Committee Recovery Team Consultative Committee »» Field Management Operations »» Queensland Heritage Council »» Wet Tropics Conservation Sector Liaison Group Group »» Queensland Sustainable Energy »» Field Management Strategy Group Advisory Council »» Wet Tropics Management Authority »» Fraser Island World Heritage Area »» Queensland Youth »» Wet Tropics Scientific Community Advisory Committee Environment Council Advisory Committee »» Fraser Island World Heritage Area »» Rainforest Aboriginal »» Wet Tropics Tourism Industry Indigenous Advisory Committee Advisory Committee Liaison Group »» Fraser Island World Heritage Area »» Regional Consultative Group for »» Whitsunday Parks Tourism Management Committee the Mackay-Whitsunday Regional Industry Forum »» Fraser Island World Heritage Area Coastal Management »» Wooroonooran Indigenous Working Scientific Advisory Committee »» Riversleigh World Heritage Group and Steering Committee »» Gondwana Rainforests of Australia Area Community and Scientific »» Yalanji Steering Committee World Heritage Area Community Advisory Committee »» Yalanji Operational Committee Advisory Committee
Remuneration of boards Board or committee Total remuneration and committees Queensland Sustainable Energy Advisory Council $2075.00
There are 46 boards and committees Animal Ethics Committee $1330.00 in the scope of the Environmental Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area $10 770.00 Protection Agency. Of these, 43 Community Advisory Committee boards and committees have members Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area Technical $5695.00 who are non-public sector members. and Scientific Advisory Seven of these boards and committees Premier’s Council on Climate Change $15 255.51 remunerate their non-public sector Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) for Cloud Seeding $10 389.22 members. Details of this remuneration Queensland Heritage Council $97 306.00 are as follows: Total $142 820.75
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 82 Glossary of terms
Terms Definition
agency objective The effects or impacts that an agency seeks to have on its clients, stakeholders, or the broader community.
ambitions Represent the desired effects on, or consequences of, Government services on the community. Ambitions are more specific goals for change and should be strategic, high-level and measurable.
annual report A written report on the operations of the agency during the financial year, as prescribed by the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1977, S 39.
Budget An outline of Government’s priorities and plans for the coming year, expressed in terms of financial and non-financial performance information.
Cabinet Budget Review The CBRC has a primary role of considering matters with financial or budgetary implications for the Committee (CBRC) Government. Initiatives or proposals with a material impact on government services or resourcing must be directed to CBRC in the first instance for consideration. At the direction of the Premier or Cabinet, CBRC may also consider other issues that require dedicated or longer-term scrutiny or otherwise might best be considered in the Committee environment. CBRC has a membership of four Ministers, with the Premier and Treasurer as standing members along with two rotational senior Ministers occupying the positions for generally one year.
co‑signatory agencies The Department of the Premier and Cabinet will nominate ‘co‑signatory agencies’ for each collaborative agreement – those agencies whose services make a significant or material contribution to the achievement of whole-of-Government targets.
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
Government objectives for The Government is required to prepare and table a statement of the Government’s broad objectives the community for the community including details of arrangements for regular reporting to the community about the outcomes the Government has achieved against its objectives for the community. Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland currently addresses this requirement. The Government’s vision for Queensland is framed around five ambitions and within each of these areas, the Government has identified measurable targets for 2020.
Government targets Set specific, observable and measurable goals for improvement in key policy areas. Achievement of Government targets is likely to require collaboration between multiple government agencies. Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland is the Government’s blueprint for the state to the year 2020. Toward Q2 includes 10 specific whole‑of‑Government targets.
lead agency Cabinet has appointed a lead agency for each Government target. The lead agency is the agency with the most significant contribution to a target. The lead agency will lead the development of collaborative agreements, including coordinating the process and drafting the resulting collaborative agreement.
Machinery of Government From time to time, the Premier will re-align responsibilities across government agencies. (MOG) change These re-alignments are known as Machinery of Government (or MoG) changes.
operational plan An agency’s operational plan provides for the services the agency intends to deliver during the plan’s timeframe. It also includes details about performance information that allows the accountable officer to assess the agency’s performance in delivering services. (Financial Management Standard 1997, S21)
output Services that are provided by agencies for clients (including policy advice provided to Ministers). Output details are provided in the Budget documentation (Service Delivery Statements).
output performance measure Units of measurement used to determine and assess the delivery of outputs (services). They measure the quantity, quality, cost, timeliness and location of services. Full details of each agency’s performance are provided in the Budget documentation (Service Delivery Statements).
performance information A generic term used to describe information about the performance of an agency or Government at any level of the performance management framework.
performance management Considered to be the system, which integrates organisational strategic management, performance information, evaluation, performance measurement, monitoring, assessment and reporting.
Performance Management The Performance Management Framework is designed to improve the analysis and application of Framework performance information to identify and address risks and opportunities for agencies, Government and the community. The Queensland Government approved that the Managing for Outcomes framework be replaced with a new Performance Management Framework in August 2008.
QCCCE Queensland Climate Change Centre of Excellence
Service Delivery Statement Budget papers prepared on a portfolio basis by agencies reporting to each Minister and (SDS) the Speaker. The SDS set out the priorities, plans and financial statements of agencies.
strategic plan Each accountable officer and statutory body must develop a strategic plan for the agency to cover a period of at least 4 years.
strategy The way in which an agency intends to pursue its objectives and deliver its services, and assist in achieving the Government’s objectives for the community. Strategies can occur at various levels within an agency. Strategies included in an agency’s strategic plan would generally be longer term ‘strategic’ strategies that are pursued over a number of years. Strategies included in an agency’s operational plan would generally be shorter term ‘operational’ strategies that are pursued over a year or less timeframe.
appendicies 83 Compliance Checklist – Final Report for the EPA
FAA Financial Administration and Audit Act 1977 FMS Financial Management Standard 1997 ARGs Annual Reporting Guidelines for Queensland Government Agencies APPENDICIES
Annual Summary of Requirement Basis for Requirement Report Reference Accessibility »» Table of Contents ARGs – section 8.1 Page 1 »» Glossary Page 82 »» Public Availability FMS – section 95 (1) (i) Page 85 »» Interpreter Service Statement Queensland Government Language Page 85 Services Policy »» Copyright Notice Copyright Act 1968 Page 86 Letter of »» A letter of compliance from the accountable ARGs – section 9 Inside cover Compliance officer or statutory body to the relevant Minister(s) Introductory »» Agency role and main functions FMS – section 95 (1) (a) and (b) Page 6 Information ARGs – section 10.3 »» Operating environment FMS – section 95 (1) (f), (e), (j) Page 6 »» External Scrutiny ARGs – section 10.3 Page 11 »» Machinery of Government changes ARGs – section 10.3 Page 6 »» Review of proposed forward operations FMS – section 95 (1) (h) not required Agency »» Government Objectives for the Community FMS – section 95 (1) (a) and (i) Page 12 Performance »» Agency Objectives and Performance Indicators Page 12 ARGs – section 11.5 »» Agency Outputs and Output Page 38 Performance Measures Summary »» Summary of financial information ARGs – section 12 Page 42 of Financial Information Governance – »» Organisational Structure FMS – section 95 (1) (f) (iii) Page 9 Management and Structure »» Executive Management FMS – section 95 (1) (f) (iii) Page 10 »» Related Entities FMS – section 96 (1) n/a »» Schedule of Statutory Authorities or FMS – section 96 (2) Page 81 Instrumentalities »» Boards and Committees ARGs – section 13.5 Page 81 »» Public Sector Ethics Act 1994 Public Sector Ethics Act 1994 Page 36 (section 23 and Schedule) - implementation statement giving details of the action taken during the reporting period »» Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994 Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994 Page 36 (sections 30 – 31 and Schedule) - public interest disclosures received Governance – Risk »» Risk Management FMS – section 95 (1) (k) Page 11 Management and Accountability »» Audit Committee ARGs – section 14.2 Page 11 »» Internal Audit ARGs – section 14.3 Page 11 Governance – »» Workforce Planning, Retention and Turnover FMS – section 95 (1) (f) (iii) Page 34 Human Resources »» Voluntary Early Retirement (VER) Directive No.11/05 Page 36 Voluntary Early Retirement (VER) »» Retrenchments Directive No.10/05 Retrenchment Page 36 »» Initiatives for Women ARGs – section 15.4 Page 35
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY | FINAL REPORT | 1 JULY 2008 – 26 MARCH 2009 84 Annual Summary of Requirement Basis for Requirement Report Reference Governance - »» Consultancies FMS – section 95 (1) (eb) Page 43 Operations »» Overseas Travel FMS – section 95 (1) (ea) Page 44 »» Information Systems and Recordkeeping Public Records Act 2002 Page 27 »» Waste Management Environmental Protection Page 34 (Waste Management) Policy 2000, Environmental Protection Act 1994 Other Prescribed »» Shared Services ARGs – section 17.1 Page 26 Requirements »» Carbon Emissions Premier’s Statement Page 30 Optional »» Corrections to Previous Annual Reports ARGs – section 18.2 n/a Information that Freedom of Information Freedom of Information Act 1992 Page 26 may be Reported »» »» Privacy Policy Queensland Government Page 26 Privacy Policy »» Indigenous Matters N/A n/a »» Native Title N/A n/a Financial »» Annual general purpose financial statements Financial Reporting Requirements Page 46 Statements for Queensland Government Agencies
»» Certification of Financial Statements FAA – sections 39 and 46F Page 77 »» Independent Auditors Report FAA - sections 38AA(1) and Page 78 46FA(3)
»» Remuneration Disclosures Financial Reporting Requirements Page 46 for Queensland Government Agencies
APPENDICIES The final report for the EPA is available on the web at www.derm.qld.gov.au
Contact us at:
The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM)
160 Ann Street PO Box 15155 City East QLD 4002 Australia [email protected] This report is made available to members of Parliament, All enquiries:...... 1300 130 372 local governments, industry and business groups, other Bushfires, medical and other emergencies:...... 000 environmental authorities, environment and conservation Internet:...... www.derm.qld.gov.au groups, members of the community and Agency staff. Camping in National Parks and State Forests On 26 March the EPA was abolished. The former Department of Natural Campsite bookings on-line:...... www.qld.gov.au/camping Resources and Water and the EPA joined to form the Campsite bookings (24 hour): ...... 13 13 04 Department of Environment and Resource Management. The Queensland Government is committed to providing accessible services The great work achieved by the to Queenslanders from all culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. EPA will continue under the new If you have difficulty in understanding the annual report, you can contact Department of Environment and us on 1300 130 372 and we will arrange an interpreter to effectively Resource Management. communicate the report to you.
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00984_July 2009 Environmental Protection Agency Final Report 1 July 2008 – 26 March 2009 www.derm.qld.gov.au