DRAFT Conservation Advice1 for the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region

This draft document is being released for consultation on the description, threats, listing category and conservation actions for the ecological community. The purpose of this consultation document is to elicit additional information to better understand the definition and status of the ecological community and help inform updated conservation actions. The draft assessment below should therefore be considered tentative at this stage, as it may change as a result of responses in this consultation process. This document combines the draft conservation advice and listing assessment for the ecological community. It provides a foundation for conservation action and further planning.

Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region at North Head (Garungal, Car-rang-gel)

The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region occurs within country (the traditional lands) of the Eora and Dharawal/Tharawal nations. We acknowledge their continuing link to the ecological community, country and culture. Proposed Conservation Status The ecological community has been listed as Endangered since 2000 under national environment law, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Information on the currently listed ecological community can be found at: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicshowcommunity.pl?id=2 The ecological community is under assessment for uplisting to Critically Endangered. The Committee’s draft assessment of the eligibility against each of the listing criteria is: Criterion 1: Critically Endangered Criterion 2: Endangered or Critically Endangered Criterion 3: Insufficient data Criterion 4: Critically Endangered Criterion 5: Insufficient data Criterion 6: Insufficient data

The main factors that make the threatened ecological community eligible for listing in the Critically Endangered category are its historic losses to clearing and resulting fragmentation, and ongoing threats to its integrity and function, including invasive species and risks associated with unsuitable fire regimes that are increased by climate change.

1 The Conservation Advice is a statutory document as per section 266B of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft

CONTENTS 1 Conservation objective ...... 3 2 Description of the ecological community and the area it inhabits ...... 3 2.1 Description ...... 3 2.2 Name ...... 4 2.3 History of legislative protection ...... 4 2.4 Location and physical environment ...... 4 2.5 Cultural and community significance ...... 10 3 Threats ...... 10 3.1 Existing and ongoing damage to the ecological community ...... 10 3.2 Key threatening processes ...... 18 4 Existing protection ...... 19 4.1 Existing protection in reserves ...... 19 4.2 Existing protection under state laws ...... 19 4.3 Existing recovery plans, management plans and best practice guidelines ...... 19 5 Conservation of the ecological community ...... 22 5.1 Identification of the ecological community ...... 22 5.2 Regulated areas of the ecological community ...... 25 5.3 Principles and standards for conservation ...... 27 5.4 Priority conservation and research actions ...... 28 6 Listing assessment ...... 39 6.1 Eligibility for listing against the EPBC Act criteria ...... 39 Appendices ...... 50 Appendix A - Species lists ...... 50 A1 Flora ...... 50 A2 Fauna ...... 53 Appendix B - Relationship to other vegetation classification and mapping systems ...... 57 B1 Relationship to New South Wales vegetation classifications ...... 58 References ...... 59

Table 1 Summary of threats facing the ecological community ...... 11 Table 2 Nationally-listed ecological communities and their status...... 25 Table 3 Estimates of past and current extent and decline for the ecological community...... 40 Table 4: Patch sizes...... 42 Table 5 Characteristic or frequently occurring flora ...... 50 Table 6 Native fauna that may be found in or near the ecological community ...... 53 Table 7 Non-native fauna that may be found in or near the ecological community ...... 57

2 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft

1 CONSERVATION OBJECTIVE To mitigate the risk of extinction of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region ecological community, and help recover its biodiversity, viability and function through protecting it from significant impacts as a Matter of National Environmental Significance under national environmental law, and by guiding implementation of management and recovery, consistent with the recommended priority conservation and research actions set out in this advice.

This draft conservation advice contains information relevant to the objective to improve conservation outcomes for the ecological community by: • describing the ecological community and where it can be found (section 2); • identifying the key threats to the ecological community (section 3); • summarising the existing protections for the ecological community (section 4); • outlining information to guide its conservation, including the key diagnostic features, and additional information to identify the ecological community, and the priority conservation and research actions to stop its decline, support its recovery and recognise the importance of involving current landholders and Indigenous people in its maintenance (section 5); and • presenting evidence to explain why the ecological community merits listing as threatened under national environmental law (section 6).

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY AND THE AREA IT INHABITS 2.1 Description The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region ecological community is comprised of the plants, animals and other organisms associated with a predominantly sclerophyllous heath or scrub vegetation structure. The range of species present varies, but the shrub layer frequently includes Banksia species such as Banksia aemula (Wallum Banksia) and Banksia serrata (Old Man Banksia, Saw-leafed Banksia, Wiryagan2) as well as other characteristic woody species such as Leptospermum laevigatum (Coast Tea Tree), Monotoca elliptica (Tree Broom-heath), Acacia suaveolens (Sweet Wattle), Allocasuarina distyla (Scrub Sheoak), Isopogon anemonifolius (Broad-leaf Drumsticks), Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush), and Ricinocarpos pinifolius (Wedding Bush). A wide range of other woody species may also be present, including Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia (Heath-leafed Banksia), which may become locally abundant in damp sites and where soils transition from deep Quaternary sands to shallower yellow earths derived from sandstone. The ground layer also varies but frequently contains a range of sedges, graminoids and forbs. Depending on site topography and hydrology, some remnants contain small patches of eucalypt woodland, low forest or limited wetter areas. The Ecological Community occurs in Sydney’s eastern and south-eastern suburbs, where it grows on perched, nutrient-poor, highly podsolised sands associated with dunes and sand sheets of Quaternary age. It was formerly widely distributed in the eastern suburbs but is now mainly restricted to elevated headlands and adjacent areas with a few examples remaining a little further inland. The EPBC Act-listed Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub ecological community occurs in the coastal areas of Sydney, between the Hawkesbury River in the north and Stanwell Park, near the southern boundary of Royal National Park.

2 Cadigal (PlantNet undated)

3 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft

This section describes the natural and largely undisturbed state of the ecological community, with more information in section 5.1 to assist in identifying occurrences of the ecological community in more damaged states. Clearing, fragmentation, changed fire regimes, weeds, feral animals, and other types of damage have reduced the ecological community’s historical floristic variability and condition (Benson and Howell, 1990a; NSW Scientific Committee, 2002; NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). Thus, most occurrences of the ecological community no longer exist in a natural or benchmark state.

2.2 Name The name of the ecological community is the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region (hereafter ‘Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub’, ‘ESBS’ or ‘the ecological community’). The ecological community is listed in NSW as the ‘Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017).

2.3 History of legislative protection The ecological community was originally described from the work of Benson and Howell (1990b). Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region was listed as Endangered under the New South Wales Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW TSC Act) in 1997 and as Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act on 16 July 2000. A national Recovery Plan for the ecological community was in place from 2005-2015. In 2015, a Conservation Advice document for the ecological community was approved by the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment, providing additional guidance on conservation, management and recovery following conclusion of the National Recovery Plan. In 2017, the ecological community was re-assessed by the NSW Scientific Committee to incorporate new information concerning the distribution and composition of the community and the listing status was increased to the Critically Endangered level under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. In 2018, the ecological community was nominated for consideration as Critically Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act.

2.4 Location and physical environment The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region ecological community occurs at altitudes up to approximately 90 metres above sea level (Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep. a,b) within a few kilometres of the coast on sand sheets overlying sandstone plateaux. The former range, (pre-clearing), was in areas that are now the eastern and south-eastern suburbs of Sydney and possibly the northern beaches area. Remnants of the ecological community are now known from North Head (Garungal, Car-rang-gel)3, which is one of the largest remnants; in eastern Sydney, where multiple small remnants remain on various tenures but primarily within public parks and on golf courses; and in south eastern Sydney where there are remnants occurring on dunes at Kamay Botany Bay National Park (both at La Perouse and Kurnell Peninsula (Kundul)2 sites), and in Royal National Park, predominantly near Bundeena. The ecological community occurs within the Sydney Basin Bioregion (Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia, IBRA V7, DoE 2012). The northern boundary of the ecological

3 Australian Museum (undated) Place Names Chart

4 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft community is considered to be at the Hawkesbury River and the southern boundary to be at Stanwell Park at the southernmost extent of Royal National Park. The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub ecological community occurs within the traditional lands of multiple Aboriginal groups4. These include, but may not be limited to the Eora Nation (including Gadigal and Birrabirragal, Cammeraygal, Gadigal and Gayamagal clans) (Attenbrow 2010, cited by Aboriginal Heritage Office 2006-2010) in the Sydney region as far south as around Botany Bay (Ka-may) 5, as well as the Dharawal/Tharawal nation (including the Gweagal clan), to the south of this (Heiss and Gibson, 2013, Sutherland Shire, undated). The ecological community is known to occur (at the time of writing) primarily within the Greater Sydney Local Land Services Natural Resource Management Region but may also occur in the northern margin of the South East NSW Local Land Services Natural Resources Management Region. The ecological community is likely or known to occur (at the time of writing) within the following Local Government Areas: Sutherland Shire, Waverley, Randwick, Bayside, Woollahra, and Northern Beaches, which are part of the Greater Sydney area (Digital Transformation Agency 2020). Do you agree with the proposed boundaries for the ecological community being assessed for up-listing under the EPBC Act? (noting they align with the current NSW listing). If not please provide your reasons and provide any supporting evidence.

2.4.1 Soils The ecological community occurs on Quaternary sand deposits that are commonly of aeolian nature and include the Tuggerah, Newport, North Head and Kurnell Soil Landscapes (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). Historically, it may have also occurred on Quaternary sands of marine origin (e.g. at Rose Bay or Brighton Le Sands (Benson and Howell 1990)). These deposits have been highly leached and weathered, so are very low in nutrients (OEH, 2016b). The topography that supports the ecological community includes plains, rolling dunes and swales or perched dunes. In some areas, the sands have been re- worked by wind or water, so the stratigraphy is not always clear (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). The sand layer varies in depth from shallow mantles less than a metre thick on sandstone headlands and rises to much deeper dunes (for example, to a depth of 40 m at Kurnell) (OEH 2016b).

2.4.2 Vegetation 2.4.2.1 VEGETATION STRUCTURE The vegetation structure of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region is predominantly sclerophyllous heath or scrub, with either an open or closed canopy and containing a range of woody species from small to large shrubs. The ground layer of sedges and forbs is open on freely draining sands and may be quite dense in damp depressions. There is sometimes a layer or localised areas of low (or wind-pruned) eucalypts (Eucalyptus, Corymbia and Angophora species). Vines and climbers are not a prominent component of the ecological community, but do occur in limited wetter areas (OEH 2016b). The ecological community falls within the class ‘Wallum sand heaths’ defined by Keith (2004). In some situations, it forms a transitional community from the heaths occurring on

4 AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia: www.aiatsis.gov.au/explore/articles/aiatsis-map-indigenous-australia 5 Australian Museum (undated) Place Names Chart

5 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft shallow sandstone and those on deeper sands (OEH, 2016b). This ecotonal band is likely to be important for supporting the function of the core parts of the ecological community. The disturbance history (including fire occurrence) at each site can profoundly influence the state of the ecological community in terms of structure, as well as species composition. For example, long-unburnt areas may support dense and tall thickets of Leptospermum laevigatum, and recently burnt areas may be dominated by regrowth of Acacia species. Where suitable soils and landscape conditions remain, it may be possible for some disturbed sites to be restored to a structure and composition more representative of the earlier state.

2.4.2.2 FLORISTIC COMPOSITION A wide range of plant species may be present at sites containing the ecological community. Variation in the structure and species composition of the community is related to variable site conditions including soil nutrient status and drainage, proximity to the ocean, disturbance, and influence of neighbouring areas. At many sites, the ecological community has been substantially degraded and altered, including by weed species such as Bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata). The following plant species are those most characteristic of the ecological community. Not all such species need be present for the ecological community to be identified. Conversely, the presence of other species not listed as characteristic does not exclude the presence of the ecological community, unless atypical species dominate the site, mindful of factors such as disturbance history and plantings. The NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2017) also notes that some species may be present only in the soil seedbank, and hence may not be detected in a standard flora survey. Lambert and Lambert (2015a) list 42 of the species associated with ESBS that store seed in the soil (though more are likely to occur) and cite Lesak (2000) who found good germination rates of this soil-stored seed. A more comprehensive list of plant species occurring in the ecological community is located at Appendix A - Species lists.

TREE CANOPY SPECIES Localised areas of low trees are occasionally present in the ecological community, including Corymbia gummifera (Red Bloodwood) and less commonly Angophora costata (Smooth- barked Apple, Sydney Red Gum) (OEH, 2013). These trees often take on a low-growing mallee form within the ecological community. Small, scattered trees of Eucalyptus botryoides (Bangalay) may also be present. Less often, other eucalypt species can be present. Stands of the large shrub to small tree, Ceratopetalum gummiferum (NSW Christmas Bush) may be present, and can indicate highly podsolised soils.

SHRUB SPECIES A diverse range of woody shrub species is characteristic of this ecological community, but the combinations of species vary between sites with no one species necessarily present at all sites. Characteristic shrubs include Acacia longifolia, (Golden Wattle), Acacia suaveolens, (Sweet Wattle), Allocasuarina distyla (Scrub Sheoak), Banksia aemula (Wallum Banksia), Banksia serrata (Old Man Banksia), Bossiaea heterophylla, Bossiaea scolopendria (Plank Plant), Dillwynia retorta, Isopogon anemonifolius (Broad-leaf Drumsticks), Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush), Lambertia formosa (Mountain Devil), Leptospermum laevigatum (Coast Tea Tree), Leucopogon ericoides, Melaleuca nodosa (Prickly-leaved Paperbark), Monotoca elliptica (Tree Broom-heath), Persoonia lanceolata (Lance Leaf Geebung), Philotheca buxifolia, Philotheca salsolifolia, Pimelea linifolia (Slender Rice Flower), Ricinocarpos pinifolius (Wedding Bush), Styphelia viridis (Green Five Corners) and Woollsia pungens

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(Snow Wreath). Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia (Heath-leaved Banksia), may be locally common in damper sites or on the interface between sand and sandstone substrates.

GROUND LAYER SPECIES Ground stratum plants include Dampiera stricta, Haemodorum planifolium (Strap-leaf Bloodroot), Hypolaena fastigiata (Tassel Rope Rush), Lepidosperma concavum (Sword- sedge), Lomandra glauca (Pale mat-rush), Xanthorrhoea resinosa (Grass Tree) and Xanthosia pilosa (Woolly Xanthosia). Cassytha pubescens (Dodder Laurel) is the only characteristic vine or climber, but others can also occur in the ecological community at some locations e.g. Smilax glyciphylla (Native Sarsaparilla).

2.4.3 Variation in the ecological community The floristic composition of the ecological community varies between sites with different geographic location and climate, topography, maritime influence, soil depth, drainage, nutrient status and disturbance regime (including fire), as well as influences from neighbouring ecological communities or land uses. On deep, freely-draining sands, deep- rooted shrubs are dominant, low trees and mallees may be present, the ground layer is typically open and can include more bracken ferns, while in some swales between dunes, poor drainage supports shallow-rooted shrub species and allows higher density of rushes and sedges. Some areas in depressions may accumulate surface water after persistent rain. Where sands are very leached, the vegetation tends to be shorter and more likely to be dominated by Banksia aemula, while B. serrata is more likely to be prominent where soil nutrients are slightly higher. As the nutrient status increases further, the ecological community grades into dry sclerophyll forest. Where the sand is very shallow and sandstone is commonly outcropping, Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub grades into other ecological communities such as Coastal Headland Banksia Heath or Coastal Headland Cliffline Scrub (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). Ecotonal areas may also include areas with poor drainage, sometimes because of shallow depth of the sand above the relatively more impermeable sandstone substrate. Coastal heaths on soils derived directly from sandstone are outside the scope of the threatened ecological community. For some years after a major disturbance there may be dominance by a few species such as Acacia longifolia, with gradual restoration of a more complex floristic composition and vegetation structure over time if seed is stored in the soil (NSW Scientific Committee 2002; NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). However, as the time since fire increases beyond 15 years (Lambert and Lambert 2015a and DECC 2009), species diversity typically declines as short-lived species senesce. Additionally, there may be a change in structure and dominant species, with tall shrubs such as Leptospermum laevigatum and Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) becoming more dominant at some sites. Also, non- sclerophyllous woody plant species including Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) and Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) may establish in the community (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). The ecological community compositional variants are represented by two NSW plant community types (PCTs): Southern Sandplain Heath (PCT 3805) and Sydney Coastal Sand Mantle Heath (PCT 3806) (Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep.a,b).6 For this draft Conservation Advice, areas meeting the description of these PCTs between

6 The relationship between the NSW plant community types as defined at the time of writing and other earlier definitions of plant based ecological communities in NSW is outlined in Appendix B

7 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft the Hawkesbury River mouth and Stanwell Park are considered very likely to indicate the presence of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. The Southern Sand Plain Heath (PCT 3805) occurs on the large and deep sand dunes on headlands and sandplains on the southern and central coasts. Specific locations where this variant can be seen include at Kurnell and Jibbon (near Bundeena in Royal National Park), as well as at La Perouse. It is likely that it formerly occurred much more extensively between Botany and Woollahra (Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep. a,b). In most locations, Banksia serrata is prevalent, but at some locations in the central part of its range (for example, La Perouse) Banksia aemula may be prominent. Other common species present in the uppermost shrub layer include Acacia suaveolens, Allocasuarina distyla, Isopogon anemonifolius, Leptospermum laevigatum, and Ricinocarpos pinifolius. The ground layer is open or moderately dense in places and includes sedges, graminoids and forbs including Gonocarpus teucrioides, Hypolaena fastigiata, Lepidosperma concavum and in some cases Pteridium esculentum (Austral bracken) (Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep. a,b). This variant of the ecological community occurs between 9-66 metres in areas receiving between 1195-1277 mm in annual average rainfall (OEH 2016a). The Coastal Sand Mantle Heath (PCT 3806) component occurs on shallower sands perched on sandstone headlands and other rises, including sites at Malabar, La Perouse, Kurnell and extending north to North Head. Some of the most typical species are Banksia aemula, Kunzea ambigua and Leptospermum laevigatum, with other less prominent species including Acacia longifolia, Acacia suaveolens, Allocasuarina distyla, Banksia ericifolia (where sands are shallowest) and Monotoca elliptica, especially where soils are moist. The understorey is locally variable, with Dianella caerulea and Lomandra glauca often found as sparse cover at drier sites. Where drainage is poor, there are more sedges and rushes such as Leptocarpus tenax and Lepyrodia scariosa.This variant is typically found between 6-90m in elevation in areas receiving around 1220mm in annual average rainfall (OEH 2016a, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep. a,b). Further to this, at North Head, two variants of the ecological community have been described by Lambert and Lambert (2015b). One, named ‘ESB’ is the more diverse of the two types, including a wide range of species associated with the ecological community, with an open structure and grassy understorey. This is described at approximately one third of the areas of the ecological community at North Head. The other type, named ‘Lepto’, is much denser and dominated by several tall shrub species including Leptospermum laevigatum, Monotoca elliptica and Banksia ericifolia. Banksia aemula is not present and the understorey is very sparse. This variant has been described as more common at North Head than at other sites where the ecological community is present. Its presence is attributed to past disturbance such as attempted vegetation clearing, with subsequent colonisation by thicket-forming shrubs (Lambert and Lambert 2015a). Fires tend to open these thickets temporarily, stimulate mass seedling recruitment, enabling the canopy to close over again and remain dominant (Benson and Howell 1994 cited in OEH 2016b). Variation in soil depth has also been suggested as a potential source of this variation (OEH 2016b).

• Do you agree with the vegetation description? If not, how can it be clarified? • Are there any flora species that you think should be removed, added or described differently to accurately represent the proposed ecological community? Please provide your reasons

2.4.4 Fauna The vegetation of the ecological community provides a range of food resources for fauna, including seeds (particularly from pea species), also nectar and invertebrates, as well as

8 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft shelter (Skelton et al 2003a). The greatly changed ecological landscape of Sydney has also led to the loss or reduction of some of its species, for example, quoll species, with possible causes including disease, habitat loss and predation and competition with invasive species such as cats and foxes (National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999; Recher et al 2010; Peacock and Abbott 2014). Pollination is one of the important roles played by some faunal species in the ecological community. This is particularly conspicuous for the Proteaceous plant species such as Banksia species and Lambertia formosa, Xanthorrhoea species and Myrtaceaeous species such as Tea Trees, which provide nectar and pollen in exchange for pollination. The pollinators include Honeyeater birds such as New Holland Honeyeater (Phylidonyris (Meliornis) novaehollandiae) and Red Wattlebird (Anthochaera (Anellobia) chrysoptera) as well as mammals such as Cercartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy possum) and Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) (Skelton et al 2003a; Atlas of Living Australia 2021). The availability of resources such as nectar, as well as seeds, changes over time after fire, with the quantity reducing as large shrubs such as Leptospermum laevigatum become more dominant. This affects the habitat suitability for fauna requiring these resources (Skelton et al 2003a). The ecological community also has relatively high volumes of invertebrates available to insectivores (Skelton et al 2003a), supporting insectivorous birds such as Psophodes (Psophodes) olivaceus (Eastern Whipbird) and reptiles such as Amphibolurus muricatus (Jacky Lizard) (Melville, 2016; Atlas of Living Australia 2021), as well as mammals such as Antechinus stuartii (Brown Antechinus) and Rattus fuscipes (Bush Rat). These two mammals are not currently present at many occurrences of the ecological community, but persist at Royal National Park (Atlas of Living Australia 2021) and have been successfully re-introduced at North Head, following losses of the species there (Leo 2019). Pseudocheirus peregrinus (Common Ringtail Possum) is another mammal that occurs commonly in the ecological community at North Head, but may not be common at other sites (Atlas of Living Australia 2021). Also at North Head, the population of Perameles nasuta (Long-nosed Bandicoot) is notable, and listed as ‘endangered’ in NSW (NSW Scientific Commitee 1997). This species was formerly widespread in Sydney but is now absent from many locations, thought due to predation by domestic animals, road deaths and loss of habitat. It also remains present in the ecological community at Royal National Park. The species is recognised for its role in soil engineering, with turnover of 0.47 tonnes per ha recorded in heath ecosystems. This has potential effects on levels of carbon in the soil as well as infiltration, seed germination and plant establishment (Eldridge and James 2009). Tachyglossus aculeatus (Echidna) plays a similar role by its burrowing and foraging behaviour (Eldridge and James 2009), and is present at some sites in the ecological community, including North Head and Royal National Park (Atlas of Living Australia 2021). Where species that have clear functional roles are now absent from occurrences of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub these absences may compromise long term stability of the ecological community. Invertebrates are clearly important in roles such as pollination, predation, herbivory and distribution of seeds, as well as themselves becoming food for a range of other fauna. There is limited information on the assemblages present as well as their interactions with other components of the ecological community. A list of some animal species associated with the ecological community, including threatened fauna, is at Appendix A - Species lists • Do you agree with the fauna information? If not, how can it be clarified? • Is there additional information on fauna you would like to see included, particularly with relation to the ecological function of the community?

9 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft

2.5 Cultural and community significance The significance of the ecological community, particular species, spiritual and other cultural values is diverse and varied for the many Indigenous peoples who live in the area and care for Country. This section describes some published examples of this significance but is not intended to be comprehensive, applicable to, or speak for, all Indigenous people. Such knowledge may be only held by Indigenous groups and individuals who are the custodians of this knowledge.

The Indigenous communities of the coastal areas of Sydney (including multiple clans of the Eora Nation as well as the D’harawal/Tharawal nation) have made use of rich resources from the sea and the surrounding bushland, while managing these areas to maintain abundance, for example, through fine scale fire management (DECC 2007). While the nature of the resources available at different times of year varies, due to their relative abundance, and the establishment of trade, these groups did not historically need to travel large distances to support their needs (Aboriginal Heritage Office 2006-2021). While fish and other seafoods were available near the shore in warmer months, in cooler months people relied more on the plants and animals of the headlands for food (DECC 2007; Hinkson 2010). Natural events and signs are part of a calendar that reflects the availability and use of resources, including cultural and practical conditions on their use (Bureau of Meteorology 2016). Through the accumulation of knowledge over many generations, people of the region developed understanding not only of individual species and their characteristics, but also of the complex interactions that support ecological function of natural areas. A large body of knowledge related to the practical uses of plants and animals, as well as spiritual associations has been developed by the Indigenous communities of the region. This includes uses for food, medicine, shelter, weapons, clothing and other objects for practical use (Benson and Howell 1990a). This knowledge is largely held within Indigenous communities. In acknowledgement of this rich body of knowledge and understanding, a small range of examples are presented here from information in the public domain. Flowers of Banksias are sources of nectar that can be collected in a sweet drink (Hinkson 2010). The flowers of the versatile Xanthorrhoea (Grass Trees) can be used similarly, while their straight shaft also have other uses such as spears, and its resin can provide glue. After preparation, Pteridium esculentum (Austral Bracken) rhizomes can provide a starchy winter staple food. Seasonally, a range of fruits are also available from heathland plants, including species of the Astroloma, Leucopogon, Styphelia, Persoonia and Cassytha genera. Within the ecological community there are also plants useful for their provision of fibres for weaving, for example, Lomandra and Dianella species (Benson and Howell 1990a). Consultation is continuing, and we seek feedback from Traditional Owners on Indigenous cultural values, preferred ways to present the information, as well as permissions to include such information. Information included in the Conservation Advice can highlight cultural values and inform future management.

3 THREATS 3.1 Existing and ongoing damage to the ecological community Clearing for urban development and infrastructure, fragmentation, removal of soils, changed fire regimes, invasion by weeds and feral animals, and other types of damage have reduced the ecological community’s historical extent and floristic variability (Benson and Howell, 1990b; NSW Scientific Committee 2002; NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017). Most of these threats remain active across various tenures.

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Table 1 outlines the key threats facing the ecological community to help explain why this ecological community merits listing as threatened and supports the assessment against the criteria at Section 6.1. Although presented as a list, these threats often interact, rather than acting independently, for example, fire, weeds and climate change can be strongly linked. Table 1 Summary of threats facing the ecological community Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base Clearing for Timing: • Clearing of the ecological community began quite early in urban past / ongoing the colonial history of Sydney. The location of the ecological development and community on relatively poor soils made it less favourable Severity: other uses. for agriculture than higher nutrient areas but pressure on extreme these areas increased with expansion of the urban area. Scope: From the 1820s clearing included greater extraction of wood whole for firewood and fencing from the more sheltered areas (DECC 2009). Sydney Common was declared in 1811 and the area, which would have had substantial remnants of the ecological community was gradually transformed according to ideals of park management of the time (Centennial Parklands, undated). At North Head clearance was not to facilitate urban development but for other purposes such as a military base and quarantine station (OEH 2016b). In some locations such as North Head, Malabar Headland and La Perouse, vegetation loss has resulted in substantial erosion with exposed dunes mobilised (OEH 2016a). The legacy of past clearing continues, with very little of the cleared area having been restored and much of it converted to other land uses, resulting in the loss of suitable soils, or making the land unavailable. In recent times smaller areas have been cleared, with continued pressure to develop areas in and around the ecological community. In the context of the greatly reduced extent, any losses are of consequence.

Urbanisation Timing: • Beyond initial clearing, urbanisation comes with ongoing ongoing impacts, some of which are described in greater detail in the following sections. These include disruption of faunal Severity: ecology due to fragmentation and displacement or predation major by domestic and feral animals that are present at high Scope: densities. Urban development also results in hydrological whole change and eutrophication through urban runoff, water diversion and groundwater extraction, as well as regional climate change, for example, due to urban heat islands (Coutts et al 2007).

• Increased human populations near natural areas may lead to their appreciation but there is increased pressure on these areas, with problems including profusion of bike and four-wheel drive trails, weed invasion, cubby construction, increased fire frequency and intensity (including through arson), rubbish dumping, mowing or ‘tidying up’ native areas and firewood collection, as well as impacts of busy roads adjacent to the natural areas.

• Roads can be dangerous for animals moving between habitat patches. Vehicular traffic has been identified as one of the main causes of mortality of Perameles nasuta at North Head (Skelton et al 2003a).

Extraction of Timing: • On the Kurnell Peninsula up to 170 million tonnes of sand sand past were extracted since 1930 removing the sand dunes that

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base Severity: had previously been de-stablised by vegetation clearance extreme for grazing and wood (Salt 2000 cited in Sutherland Environment Centre 2021). The former sand dune areas Scope: have been used for industrial purposes and more recently minority for housing development. Even in areas that have not been replaced with structures, the removal of the low nutrient sandy soil associated with the ecological community has removed the scope for regeneration and in most cases, the restoration potential.

Fragmentation Timing: • It is thought that prior to 1750 the patches of the ecological legacies ongoing community were almost continuous through the central area between La Perouse and Woollahra (DECC 2009). Since Severity: this time, the substantial vegetation clearance in this area extreme / major has led to a pattern of fragmentation of any remaining areas Scope: of the ecological community. Three problems associated whole with this are described below: reduction in patch size and direct loss in species diversity; increased distance between patches and associated effects on ecological function; and, edge effects reducing the integrity of the isolated patches.

• Reduction in patch size: Following the division of natural areas into small fragments the loss of resident species from each fragment can continue for many years. This loss is related to the size of each fragment and may also be greater where the surrounding matrix of the patch is unsuitable for the species that inhabit the patch. Over 95% of remaining patches of the ecological community are smaller than 10ha (see Listing Assessment response to criterion 2: section 6.1.2).

• Increased distances between patches: The distances between patches have been substantially increased. For example, the location of Randwick Environment Park is likely to have been once surrounded by a very large continuous area of ESBS. Now, the nearest known patch is over 2km away at Bonnie Doon Golf Club (see Listing Assessment response to criterion 2: section 6.1.2). This limits the movement of animal species between patches including pollinators and dispersers, reduces animal foraging efficiency and limits gene flow between animal populations and plants. In many cases the isolated patches of the ecological community are not near any type of native vegetation. There is also reduced resilience of patches in the event of loss, for example, after fire or disease outbreaks.

• Edge effects: Fragmentation exposes relatively large areas of the remnant patches to damaging influences such as invasion by weeds, invasive animals and diseases such as Phytophthora cinnamomi and myrtle rust, runoff containing herbicides and fertiliser, drying in hot weather, strong winds, increased damage by defoliating insects, rubbish dumping and other incursions by people. Fire frequency may also be increased in the edges of patches, for example as asset protection zones for nearby urban areas or by arson.

• Even where remnants are part of conservation reserves many of these types of damage still occur where patches

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base occur in small fragments or are divided by roads. For example, while the majority of the sandplain heath component of the ecological community is included in reserves, 24% of the patches are visibly disturbed by roads (OEH 2016c).

Altered fire Timing: • The ecological community is highly dependent on suitable regimes ongoing fire regimes to allow regeneration of key species and avoid dominance by a few species (Department of Environment Severity: and Climate Change 2009; Lambert and Lambert 2015a). extreme The recommended interval between fires is 10-15 years, Scope: with fire exclusion of greater than 30 years likely to be whole damaging leading to a loss in diversity of species characteristic of the ecological community (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009). Multiple short intervals between fire (<10 years) may also reduce the integrity and resilience of the ecological community.

• With the discontinuation of fire management by Traditional Owners from the late 18th Century fire regimes of the area have changed substantially. Fire exclusion around urban areas has been common.

• According to Skelton et al (2003a), at North Head, historical records suggest that traditional burning was quite frequent but small in scale. Similar small-scale burns occurred in some areas of North Head up to the end of the 1930s. In the mid-1940s a large fire affected most of North Head (more than 100ha) but following this there were no records of fire until 1970 (Skelton et al 2003a). In the following decades small areas were burnt (including seven occurrences of arson between 1979 and 1987) but overall fires have been infrequent over recent decades (Lambert and Lambert 2015a). I

• Increasingly warm and dry conditions associated with a changing climate will likely influence the frequency, spatial extent and intensity of fires. Strauch (2015) and Strauch and Lambert (2019) commented on the history of escapes of planned burns at North Head and described the intensive planning required for burning some small areas (less than 2.5 ha of ESBS) in 2012. On 17 October 2020 the majority of bushland on North Head burned due to a management fire breaching containment lines. Approximately 62 ha of bush burned (8.7 ha was planned) (Australian Wildlife Conservancy 2020; NSW Government 2020). This impacted on a substantial proportion of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub at this site and resulted in the abandonment of experimental work being undertaken to support its recovery there (AWC 2020). Many individual small mammals were killed directly by the fire, or through increased predation after the fire (Hoer, 2021). It is likely that with the reduced resources available to fauna following the fire there may have been further mortality. The large area burned in this fire creates that any subsequent fires may occur before maturity of some species.

• In some locations short intervals between fire have also been suggested as evidence of an inappropriate fire regime

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base within patches of the ecological community (OEH 2016b). For example, patches of the ecological community in the north-east of Royal National Park were burned four or more times in 34 years (1973-2007) (DECC 2007). Arson also reduces the predictability of fire regimes in ESBS (DEC 2004; Strauch 2015). Given the very small area of the ecological community remaining and its dependence on appropriate fire regimes the risk of damage by unplanned or mismanaged fire is likely to be high, especially in the context of the changing climate. There is also potential for negative interactions between fragmentation and inappropriate fire regimes (for example, see Driscoll et al 2021).

• Introduction of fire without effective pest control may expose regenerating seedlings to herbivory from rabbits (or native fauna) which may negatively impact the lower strata (Lambert and Lambert 2015a; Strauch 2015) with subsequent effects on the ability for feral or native predators to consume native fauna (Hoerr 2021).

Invasive species Timing: • Due to the fragmented nature of the ecological community, – Plants (weeds) ongoing and the proximity to urban areas, the understorey of the ecological community can be severely impacted by invasive Severity: plants that are dumped or dispersed by vertebrates. major Scope: • In an analysis of disturbance of vegetation, invasive plants whole were identified as the main problem in 30% of areas with ‘extensive’ disturbance’ OEH (2016c).

• The ecological community is threatened by several Weeds of National Significance including Bitou Bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata), Boneseed (C. monilifera subsp. monilifera), Lantana (Lantana camara), African Lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula), Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus), and Climbing Asparagus (A. plumosus). Other invasive plants present include Ehrharta (Ehrharta erecta) and Turkey Rhubarb (Acetosa sagittata) (Department of Primary Industries, undated). These invasive plants compete with and exclude the native plant species typical of the ecological community and cause change in ecological function, for example, by changing fire behaviour. Bitou bush, and the closely related boneseed have transformed much of the NSW sandy coastline, smothering native vegetation (NSW Scientific Committee 1999) and are commonly found in or near ESBS. Invasive plants can also alter pollinator dynamics, for instance, by providing competing sources of nectar that attract insects and birds away from native species.

• Invasive plants can be introduced through various means, including: wind or water-dispersal from adjacent areas (e.g. urban areas); rubbish and garden waste dumping; inappropriate plantings in and near patches; and from contaminated vehicles (e.g. cars, mowers), pedestrians (and their pets) and run-off introducing weeds along adjacent roads and infrastructure (e.g. powerline) corridors and walking tracks.

Invasive species Timing: • Invasive animals are a serious problem that can affect the

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base – Animals ongoing ecological community in several ways including herbivory and predation. Severity: major • The key invasive herbivores in the ecological community are Scope: rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Rusa Deer Rusa whole timorensis). The herbivores alter the structure and composition of native vegetation communities by selectively grazing on some species of native plants and removing large amounts of biomass.

• Rabbits are present at many sites (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012; 2013). Following burning of the ecological community at North Head rabbits have been observed at high densities and are thought responsible for limiting regeneration. Densities of up to 6 individuals per ha were recorded. One year after burning, plant density outside of rabbit exclosures was only 54% of that inside the fenced area (Lambert and Lambert 2015a).

• Rusa deer have been identified as a problem in Royal National Park, where they are noted to trample vegetation (OEH 2016b) and graze tall shrub, understorey and grass species (OEH 2012).Within the park, densities of up to 60 individuals per km2 have been recorded (Moriarty 2004 cited in Pedersen et al 2014) and high deer density has been observed in areas of sandstone heath and woodland which have 30–70% fewer plant species than areas with deer in low densities (NPWS 2002 cited in OEH 2012). Deer are thought to be expanding their range in Royal National Park (Keith and Pellow 2005 cited in Pedersen et al 2014). Deer are also identified as a threat in Kamay Botany Bay National Park (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2020).

• Pedersen et al (2014) identified a relationship between the presence of deer and lower numbers of some small native mammals Rattus fuscipes, (Bush Rat) and Antechinus stuartii (Brown Antechinus) in areas that have been recently burned. The mechanism for this interactive effect is not clear.

• Predation by cats (Felis catus) impacts on small fauna across diverse ecological communities. Proximity to urban areas results in constant pressure from both domestic and feral cats.

• Foxes predate on native fauna and spread weeds such as bitou bush (NSW Department of Primary Industries undated).

• Honey bees may also compromise pollination success of plants within the ecological community if native pollinators are excluded (DEC 2004).

• Several species of introduced birds including Blackbirds (Turdus merula), Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus (Pycnonotus) jocosus), and Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) are present in various patches of the ecological community Atlas of Living Australia 2021). This is likely due to the proximity of urban areas. These species compete for resources and can spread weed seeds. Although native to

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base the region, the expansion of the range and permanent residency by Grey Currawongs (Strepera graculina) has also been noted as a problem with impacts including nest predation and spread of weed seeds. High densities of this species have been noted following a survey at North Head (Skelton et al 2003a).

Disease Timing: • There is potential for components of the ecological ongoing community to be affected by organisms with the potential to substantially change structure and floristics of the ecological Severity: community, and possibly severe follow-on effects on major (potential) dependent fauna (DEC 2004). Scope: • Phytophthora cinnamomii (Phytophthora dieback) is known Majority to be present in the vicinity of some patches, for example, it (potential) is present in Centennial Park. This has the potential to substantially affect species characteristic of the ecological community, particularly in the Proteaceae family (including Banksia and Hakea species). Xanthorrhoea species are also vulnerable.

• Austropuccinia psidii (myrtle rust) also has potential to affect members of the Myrtaceae family (such as Eucalypts and tea trees) within the ecological community. Given the relatively dry conditions of heath communities such as Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, outbreaks in some locations could occur periodically rather than continuously (Makinson 2018).

Changes in Timing: • In many locations the substrate of the ecological community drainage, water ongoing has been subject to earthworks, disturbing the Quaternary quality and sands and altering drainage. This affects the conditions for Severity: impacts from growth experienced by plants in the ecological community minor runoff. and the potential for restoration. Scope: • Runoff from golf courses, gardens and parks may include minority nutrients that are damaging to the species of the ecological community, particularly plants in the Proteaceae family that are adapted to low nutrient conditions, with increased nutrients also encouraging weed growth. Runoff can also spread weed seeds (DECC 2009).

Climate change Timing: • Climate change projections for the region include higher and severe ongoing average and maximum temperatures, substantially declining weather rainfall, particularly in the cooler months, as well as more Severity: compound extreme events such as drought, heat waves and major an increase in days of dangerous fire weather (Hennessy et Scope: al 2005; BOM and CSIRO 2020). whole • According to Dunlop et al (2017) “The ESBS community is regarded as particularly vulnerable to climate change”. In the context of changing climate, patches of the ecological community are likely to change their species composition and retaining local provenance of species will be more challenging.

• Climate change is likely to result in substantial wildfires and exacerbate fire impacts, causing losses of large areas of native vegetation and fauna (Hennessy et al 2005; Deb et al

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base 2020).

Loss of key Timing: • Across the range of the ecological community there has native fauna ongoing been substantial loss of fauna species (Recher 2010). For some groups such as invertebrates it is likely that losses Severity: have not been recorded. In many cases there is insufficient major information on the functions that extinct fauna species Scope: played.

majority • Fauna that are known to play (or have played) key roles in the function of the ecological community include diggers, pollinators and predators.

• Diggers such as bandicoots can play an important role in maintaining soil processes (Eldridge and James 2009). Perameles nasuta (long-nosed bandicoot is now mainly restricted to the patch at North Head and Royal National Park, while Isoodon obesulus (Southern Brown Bandicoot) that was once widespread through the region is absent in the area occupied by the ecological community.

• The ecological community contains characteristic species such as those of the Proteaceae family, including various Banksia species that rely heavily on fauna for pollination. Within the avifauna, honeyeaters are important contributors. Recher (2010) notes the loss of various migratory honeyeaters that used to visit seasonally. Mammals such as Cercartetus nanus (Eastern Pygmy Possum) and Rattus fuscipes (Bush Rat) are important contributors to pollination but have declined across the region, and are locally extinct in most areas. This is thought largely due to habitat loss and predation. Some localised reintroductions have been made at North Head (Leo 2019). This is likely to be difficult to apply more broadly because of the continued fragmentation and effects of introduced animals, in particular, predators such as cats and foxes. The loss of characteristic fauna may also compromise seed dispersal within and between patches of the ecological community (DEC 2004).

• Predators play an important role in ecological regulation. The suite of predators present in the ecological community has substantially changed with the loss of native predators such as Dasyurus viverrinus (Eastern Quoll) and invasion by cats and foxes that substantially threaten many native fauna and are believed to be responsible for multiple local extinctions (NPWS 1999).

Destruction from Timing: • Damage occurs by trampling, introduction of weeds and unrestricted ongoing diseases such as Phytophthora cinnamomi (noted to be access by present at locations such as Centennial Park). Incursion by Severity: pedestrians and dogs off lead can also impact fauna. major vehicles Scope: • Other inappropriate activities by visitors and residents minority include dumping rubbish, planting of unsuitable plants in the proximity of patches, unsuitable use of herbicides and, unauthorised collection of seed and wildflowers (DECC 2009).

*Timing – the threat occurs in the past (and unlikely to return), is ongoing (present/continuing), is likely to occur/return in the future, or timing is unknown

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Threat factor Threat status* Threat impacts and evidence base Severity – the threat causes or has the potential to cause impacts that are extreme (leading to loss or transformation of affected patches/occurrences), major (leading to degradation of affected patches/occurrences), minor (impacting some components of affected patches/occurrences), negligible or unknown Scope – the threat is affecting the whole (>90%), a majority (>50%), a minority (<50%), a negligible amount, or unknown amount of the ecological community

• Do you agree with the information in the Threats table? In particular - are any of the listed threats more, or less, severe or of different timing or scope than currently proposed for this ecological community? • Are any threats missing, and if so please specify? Please provide additional examples of threat impacts, including potential threats.

3.2 Key threatening processes

The following Key Threatening Processes listed under the EPBC Act and/or the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act are relevant to the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region ecological community: • Land clearance (EPBC Act); Clearing of native vegetation (Biodiversity Conservation Act) • Removal of dead wood and dead trees (NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Novel biota and their impact on biodiversity (EPBC Act). • Loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped garden plants, including aquatic plants (EPBC Act); Loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped garden plants, including aquatic plants (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Invasion of native plant communities by Chrysanthemoides monilifera (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana camara (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • High frequency fire resulting in the disruption of life cycle processes in plants and animals, and loss of vegetation structure and composition (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Dieback caused by the root-rot fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi) (EPBC Act); Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Introduction and Establishment of Exotic Rust Fungi of the order Pucciniales pathogenic on plants of the family Myrtaceae (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Herbivory and environmental degradation caused by feral deer (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Competition and land degradation by rabbits (EPBC Act); Competition and grazing by the feral European Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.) (Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Predation by European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) (EPBC Act; Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Predation by feral cats (Felis catus) (EPBC Act; Biodiversity Conservation Act). • Loss of climatic habitat caused by climate change factors (EPBC Act); Anthropogenic climate change (NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act).

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Any approved threat abatement plans or advice associated with these items provides information to help landowners manage these threats and reduce their impacts to biodiversity. National Threat Abatement Plans can be found at http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicgetkeythreats.pl

4 EXISTING PROTECTION The ecological community is protected at the level of ‘critically endangered’ in NSW and ‘endangered’ nationally.

4.1 Existing protection in reserves The Australian Government collates information on lands under conservation tenure through the Collaborative And Protected Area Database (CAPAD). Holdings in formal conservation estate occur at La Perouse and Kurnell Peninsula, within Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Malabar Headland National Park, North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park and Royal National Park. In total approximately 394 ha of the ecological community is within reserves within IUCN categories I-IV (Commonwealth of Australia 2019). This is 78% of the current extent of the ecological community or between 4%-7% of the former extent of the ecological community. Of this reserved area 42% is in Royal National Park. Very little of the formally reserved area within the National Reserve System is within the central Sydney area, although there is a small additional area in other types of public parks, for example, Centennial Park and Randwick Environment Park. Presence in conservation tenure does not confer full protection because most threats identified in Section 3 operate regardless of land tenure. For instance, weeds, feral animals, wildfires and climate change also occur within national parks and need to be appropriately managed across these landscapes. The NSW Scientific Committee (2002) notes in relation to the presence of the ecological community in reserves: ‘this in itself does not ensure the survival of the community unless the threats to the integrity of the community are ameliorated’. This is evident at sites where there is dense weed cover, for example in previously disturbed areas in Kamay Botany National Park on the Kurnell Peninsula. 4.2 Existing protection under state laws The ecological community is listed as the ‘Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ under the New South Wales (Biodiversity Conservation Act (2016). This was originally listed as ‘Endangered’ in 1997 (under earlier legislation) but was re-assessed and the level of protection increased to ‘critically endangered’ in 2017.

4.3 Existing recovery plans, management plans and best practice guidelines

• Brougham K.J., Cherry H. and Downey P.O. (eds.) (2006). Boneseed management manual: current management and control options for boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera) in Australia. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Sydney. • Buchanan R. (1989), Bush regeneration: recovering Australian landscapes. Open Training and Education Network, TAFE NSW, Strathfield. • Centennial Parklands Plan of Management: 2018 and beyond https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/getmedia/1d8e3134-c077-40a6-8dbf- f12d4b4c5efa/Centennial-Parklands_Plan-of-Management_Final-July-2018.pdf.aspx

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• Clews L. and McDonald S. (2011). ‘Restoring Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub in Sydney's historic Centennial Parklands’. Australasian Plant Conservation. 20(2):13– 14. • Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) (2009) Best practice guidelines: Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Available on the Internet at: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/threatenedspecies/0942eastsubsbanksiascrub bpg.pdf • Department of Environment and Climate Change (2009) Protecting and restoring Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Available on the Internet at: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/threatenedspecies/0968tsdsesbanksiascrub.p df • Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) (2004). Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub endangered ecological community recovery plan. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Sydney. Available on the Internet at: http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/eastern-suburbs-banksia-scrub-endangered- ecological-community-recovery-plan • Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) (2004). Environmental impact assessment guidelines: Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub in the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Available on the Internet at: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/nature/ESBSEia0204.pdf • DoE [Department of the Environment] (2015). Threat abatement plan for predation by feral cats. Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra. www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/threat-abatement- plan-feral-cats

• DoE [Department of the Environment] (2015). Arrive Clean, Leave Clean: guidelines to help prevent the spread of invasive plant diseases and weeds threatening our native plants, animals and ecosystems. Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra. www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive-species/publications/arrive-clean- leave-clean

• DoEE [Department of the Environment and Energy] (2016). Threat abatement plan for competition and land degradation by rabbits. Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra. www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/competition-and- land-degradation-rabbits-2016

• DEWHA [Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts] (2008). Threat abatement plan for predation by the European red fox, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra. www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/predation- european-red-fox

• NSW Golf Club and the Environment http://www.nswgolfclub.com.au/guests/environment.mhtml#:~:text=Table%20of%20Appropria te%20Species%20at%20NSW%20Golf%20Club,%20Sydney%20Peppermint%20%2021%20 more%20rows%20

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• NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2012). Plan of Management: Sydney Harbour National Park. NSW NPWS North East Region, Office of Environment and Heritage, Department of Premier and Cabinet, Sydney. Available on the Internet at: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research-and-publications/publications- search/sydney-harbour-national-park-plan-of-management (There is also a proposed amendment 2021) • NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2000). Plan of Management: Royal National Park, Heathcote National Park and Garrawarra State Recreation Area. NSW NPWS South Metropolitan District, Sydney. Available on the Internet at: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/parks/pomfinalroyalgarawarraheathcot e.pdf • NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2020) Royal National Park, Heathcote National Park and Garawarra State Conservation Area Draft Planning Considerations https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/-/media/OEH/Corporate-Site/Documents/Parks- reserves-and-protected-areas/Parks-plans-of-management-other-documents/royal- heathcote-national-parks-garawarra-draft-planning-considerations-210057.pdf • NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2020). Kamay Botany Bay National Park Plan of Management. State of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/-/media/OEH/Corporate-Site/Documents/Parks- reserves-and-protected-areas/Parks-plans-of-management/kamay-botany-bay- national-park-plan-of-management-20200019.pdf • Office of Environment and Heritage 2012, Regional Pest Management Strategy 2012–17, Metro South West Region Office of Environment and Heritage, Sydney. https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research-and-publications/publications- search/regional-pest-management-strategy-2012-2017-metro-south-west-region • Office of Environment and Heritage (2013) Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Basin Bioregion Saving Our Species Strategy http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/savingourspeciesapp/project.aspx?ProfileID=10 257

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5 CONSERVATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY 5.1 Identification of the ecological community The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub intergrades with other vegetation types and ecological communities (see section 5.1.2.4). Key diagnostic characteristics are used to identify an area of native vegetation as being the ecological community, and define the features that distinguish it from other communities, noting that additional information to assist with identification is provided in the other sections of this document, particularly the description (2.1) and Appendices. 5.1.1 Key diagnostic characteristics The key diagnostic characteristics are designed to allow identification of the ecological community irrespective of the season. Areas of vegetation that do not meet the key diagnostics are not the nationally listed ecological community. The ecological community is defined as patches of native vegetation meeting the description in Section 2.1 and that meet all the following key diagnostic characteristics: • Occurs in New South Wales in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (IBRA V7, DoE 2012) within 10 km of the coast, between the Hawkesbury River estuary in the north and Stanwell Park in the south. • Within this area, the ecological community typically occurs on headlands, sandplains or dunes near the coast, but not on dunes comprised primarily of sand of recent marine origin. The ecological community occurs on low nutrient sand, of primarily Quaternary age. These sands are underlain by sandstone. The depth to this sandstone layer varies: small areas of sandstone may outcrop but typically outcrops are rare within the ecological community. • The structure and floristics of the ecological community vary in response to landscape position, soil depth and drainage as well as disturbance, in particular fire history. Typically, sites in good condition occur as a predominantly sclerophyllous heath, shrubland or scrub. Some trees and localised wetter patches may be present. • No species are known to be present at all sites but species most commonly associated with the ecological community are shrubs such as: Acacia longifolia (Golden Wattle) Acacia suaveolens, (Sweet Wattle) Allocasuarina distyla (Scrub Sheoak), Banksia aemula (Wallum Banksia), Banksia serrata (Old man Banksia), Isopogon anemonifolius (Broad-leaf Drumsticks), Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush), Lambertia formosa (Mountain Devil), Leptospermum laevigatum,(Coast Tea-tree) Leucopogon ericoides (Pink Beard-heath), Melaleuca nodosa (Prickly-leaved Paperbark), Monotoca elliptica (Tree Broom-Heath), Persoonia lanceolata (Lance Leaf Geebung), Philotheca salsolifolia, Pimelea linifolia (Slender Rice Flower), Ricinocarpos pinifolius (Wedding Bush), Styphelia viridis (Green Five-corners), Woollsia pungens (Snow Wreath) and a range of native peas such as Bossiaea heterophylla, Bossiaea scolopendria (Plank Plant) and Dillwynia retorta. Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia (Heath-leaved Banksia) may be locally common in damper sites or on the interface between sand and sandstone substrates. • Dominance by species that are characteristic of more fertile soils, such as Banksia integrifolia is indicative that the ecological community is not present, although individuals of such species may occur within the community at a relatively low abundance, especially near the edges of the patch where there is a transition to other vegetation types. • Tree species that are commonly present include, but are not limited to Corymbia gummifera (Red Bloodwood) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple, Sydney

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Red Gum). These trees often take on a wind-pruned mallee form within the ecological community. • In addition to low or juvenile shrubs e.g. Dampiera stricta, the ground layer typically contains a range of sedges and forbs, commonly including Haemodorum planifolium planifolium (Strap-leaf Bloodroot), Hypolaena fastigiata (Tassel Rope Rush), Lepidosperma concavum (Sword Sedge), Lomandra glauca, (Pale Mat Rush) Xanthorrhoea resinosa (Grass Tree) and Xanthosia pilosa (Woolly Xanthosia). For a more comprehensive list of species associated with the ecological community see Appendix A - Species lists. 5.1.2 Additional information to assist in identifying the ecological community The following information should also be taken into consideration when applying the key diagnostic characteristics to assess if a site may include the ecological community. Land use and disturbance history, particularly fire history, will influence the state in which a patch of the ecological community is currently expressed. Remnants of the ecological community are mostly very small and severely fragmented. Some are known to be regrowth after earlier attempted clearing, and others are partial reconstructions. All occurrences are part of the ecological community protected under national environmental law, and no condition thresholds or minimum patch sizes apply. IDENTIFYING A PATCH A patch is a discrete and mostly continuous area of the ecological community, as defined by the key diagnostics, but can include small-scale variations, gaps, and disturbances within this area. BREAKS AND VARIATION IN A PATCH When it comes to defining a patch of the ecological community allowances are made for “breaks” of up to 30 metres between areas that meet the key diagnostics. Such breaks may be the result of water bodies, watercourses or drainage lines, tracks, paths, roads, and areas of localised variation in vegetation that do not meet the key diagnostics, such as vegetation more typical of swamp forest or other wetland ecological community. For example, a single patch could include two areas of the ecological community that meet the key diagnostics, but which are separated by a narrow strip of riparian vegetation lining a watercourse. Such breaks do not significantly alter the overall function of the ecological community and form a part of the patch. They should be included in the calculation of the size of the patch. Where there is a break in the ecological community of 30 metres or more (e.g. due to permanent artificial structures, wide roads or other barriers, water bodies or other types of vegetation not meeting the definition of the ecological community) then the gap indicates that separate patches are present. Patches of the ecological community may contain areas that vary in structural or biological characteristics. Variation in canopy cover, quality, or composition of vegetation across a patch is not evidence of multiple patches, as long as the areas meet the key diagnostics. The ecological community grades into other similar habitat types, in response to factors such as gradual changes in soil depth, drainage and fertility, as well as disturbance history. These ecotonal areas support the ecological function of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Where ecotonal areas containing a range of species characteristic of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub are adjacent to areas identified as more typical of the ecological community, these ecotonal areas should be considered to be part of the patch of the ecological community. • Do you agree that these statements will clearly identify when the ecological community is present? • Are the key diagnostic characteristics sufficient to differentiate the ecological community from other ecological communities? If not, how should they be modified?

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5.1.2.1 REVEGETATION AND REGROWTH Revegetated or replanted sites or areas of regrowth are not excluded from the listed ecological community as long as the patch meets the key diagnostic characteristics. The inclusion of patches of natural and managed regeneration reflects the ecological community’s ability to regenerate. 5.1.2.2 SURVEY REQUIREMENTS Patches of the ecological community can vary markedly in their shape, size, condition and features. Thorough and representative on-ground surveys are essential to accurately assess the extent and condition of a patch. The Australian Soil and Land Survey Field Handbook (National Committee on Soil and Terrain, 2009) may provide guidance. The size, number and spatial distribution of plots or transects must be adequate to represent variation across the patch. Sampling should address likely variation in species composition and significant variation in the vegetation (including areas of different condition), landscape qualities and management history (where known) across the patch. Recording the search effort (identifying the number of person hours spent per plot/transect and across the entire patch; along with the surveyor’s level of expertise and limitations at the time of survey) is useful for future reference. Whilst identifying the ecological community is possible at most times of the year, consideration must be given to the role that season, rainfall and disturbance history may play in an assessment. The ecological community can vary in its appearance through the year and between years, depending on climatic conditions. Ideally, surveys should be held in more than one season to maximise the chance of detecting all species present, particularly threatened species. Many species are easier to detect or identify in spring and summer to early autumn; however, some species may require late winter surveys to observe flowering. In years of low rainfall, assessors should recognise that many species may not be detected. In these situations, it is preferable that surveys are carried out over more than one year. In addition to the effects of rainfall variation, presence and detectability of some species may also be affected by the time since disturbance. For example, after a fire one or more vegetation layers, or groups of species (e.g. obligate seeders), may not be evident for some time. Timing of surveys should allow for a reasonable interval after a disturbance (natural or human-induced) to allow for regeneration of species to become evident, and be timed to enable diagnostic species to be identified (for example, at least six months post fire and within two months of effective rain). At a minimum, it is important to note climate conditions and what kind of disturbance may have happened within a patch, and when that disturbance occurred, as far as possible. Surveys should also note any areas that are either significantly higher or lower in quality, and gaps in cover. Fauna surveys should be conducted following best practice guidelines such as the Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened mammals (DSEWPC 2011) or equivalent. Please comment on survey requirements, including post fire survey.

5.1.2.3 MAPPING AND VEGETATION CLASSIFICATIONS There are a number of mapping and vegetation classification schemes used in New South Wales. Although none directly map areas of the ecological community according to the key diagnostic characteristics listed in this draft Conservation Advice, they can still provide useful information on the likely occurrence of the ecological community. Appendix B - Relationship to other vegetation classification and mapping systems outlines the map units or

24 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft classifications from a number of common mapping and classification systems that best relate to the ecological community.

5.1.2.4 OTHER NEARBY LISTED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES Other nationally listed threatened ecological communities that occur in or close to the same area as the ESBS (at the time of writing).

Table 2 Nationally-listed ecological communities and their status Name Status Distribution Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Critically Endangered Scattered throughout the range Vine Thickets of Eastern of the ecological community. Australia Illawarra and Shoalhaven Critically Endangered Near the southern extent of the Subtropical Rainforest of the ecological community. Sydney Basin Bioregion Coastal Swamp Oak Endangered Throughout the range of the (Casuarina glauca) Forest of ecological community near New South Wales and South estuarine areas. East Queensland Coastal Upland Swamps in the Endangered In elevated sandstone areas, Sydney Basin Bioregion including in Royal National Park. Cooks River/Castlereagh Critically Endangered Near the Cooks River just west Ironbark Forest of the Sydney of the ecological community. Basin Bioregion

5.2 Regulated areas of the ecological community All patches that meet the description for the ecological community are considered a matter of national environmental significance, to which the referral, assessment, approval and compliance provisions of the EPBC Act (national environment law) apply. Ecotonal areas should be considered part of the patch. This recognises that: • Large and intact patches are now uncommon in this landscape due to extensive clearing, fragmentation and damage of various types including weed invasion and unsuitable fire regimes. • Smaller patches still have conservation value, notwithstanding their small size. • Demonstration sites suggest that with substantial active management, some sites in poor condition may be restored to a better state (for example, the York Road site in Centennial Park) (DECC 2009). • Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub grades into other ecological communities and these transitional areas are important in supporting the function of ESBS. There may be some patches of the ecological community likely to be in better condition, particularly those that have larger area to boundary ratios and/or have been subject to relatively low levels of disturbance in the past. Patches of the ecological community that have a low incidence of weeds, contain mature habitat trees and a more diverse understorey, and/or patches that are part of larger native vegetation remnants and/or patches that are known to support native fauna, are a very high priority for protection and

25 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft management. Management actions should be designed to restore patches to better condition. 5.2.1 Habitat or area critical to the survival The habitat or areas most critical to the survival of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub ecological community includes all occurrences and areas of similar habitat surrounding occurrences. As the ecological community has been very extensively cleared and fragmented, particularly in metropolitan areas in the central part of its range, all patches are considered critical. Other patches of surrounding or adjacent native vegetation can also provide connectivity, diversity of habitat for fauna and help buffer the ecological community from threats. These areas can also be important to the survival of the ecological community. An estimated 30.3ha of the ecological community is on Commonwealth land at the time of this advice (OEH 2016a).

5.2.2 Areas of high value - surrounding environment and landscape context The surrounding vegetation and other landscape considerations influence how important a patch is to the ecological community as a whole. Patches that are larger and less disturbed are likely to provide greater biodiversity value. Patches that are ecologically linked, whether spatially or by proximity, are particularly important as wildlife habitat and to the viability of those patches of the ecological community into the future. However, this still does not necessarily consider the full landscape context. For natural resource management activities or actions that may have ‘significant impacts’ and require approval under the EPBC Act, it is important to consider the whole environment surrounding patches of the ecological community. For example, in heavily cleared areas, some patches occur in isolation. Such patches require protection and could benefit from revegetation activities to link them with other patches. Where the original soils remain intact there may be potential for restoration, even where patches are small or vegetation has been removed, although this requires substantial and ongoing commitment to management. The ecological community often occurs in association with other native vegetation types. Patches of the ecological community that remain connected with other native vegetation have a better chance of future survival and restoration success, because connected patches are buffered from disturbance by the surrounding native vegetation. The following indicators of high value should be considered when assessing the impacts of proposed actions under national environment law, or when determining priorities for protection, recovery, management and funding. • Larger patches and/or patches with a large area to boundary ratio. Patches with larger area to boundary ratios are less exposed and more resilient to edge effect disturbances such as weed invasion and soil deposition. • Patches within or near to a larger native vegetation remnant and that contribute to a mosaic of vegetation types present at a site. Areas of mosaic native vegetation provide a wider range of habitats that benefit flora and fauna diversity. Other patches are important as linkages among remnants and for fauna to access water bodies, acting as ‘stepping stones’ of native remnants in the landscape. Connectivity includes actual or potential connectivity to restoration works (e.g. native plantings). • Patches that occur in areas where the ecological community has been most heavily cleared and degraded (such as in the central area of the ecological community, between Woollahra and La Perouse (inclusive), or that are at the natural edge of its

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range, particularly where there is genetic distinction, or absence of some threats. These may include unique variants of the ecological community, e.g. with a unique flora and/or fauna composition, or a patch that contains flora or fauna that have largely declined across the broader ecological community or region. • Patches that show evidence of recruitment of key native plant species or the presence of a range of age cohorts (including through successful assisted regeneration or management of sites). • Patches with faunal habitat as indicated by diversity of landscape features, diversity of plant species characteristic of the ecological community and vegetation structure. • Patches containing nationally or state-listed threatened species, or key functional species such as key pollinators and dispersers. • Patches with high species richness, as shown by the variety of native plant species, or high number of native fauna species (vertebrates and/or invertebrates). • Patches with relatively low levels of weeds and feral animals.

5.3 Principles and standards for conservation It is always more effective to maintain existing remnants of the nationally protected ecological community than to allow their destruction or degradation with the intention of attempting rehabilitation of these or other areas. The more disturbed and modified a patch of the ecological community becomes, the greater the recovery effort that is required for it to regain its character and ecological function. Consequently, it is typically more cost-effective to retain an intact remnant than to allow degradation and then attempt to restore it or another area. In defining an approach to conservation of threatened ecological communities it is preferable to maintain existing areas of the ecological community, particularly where they are relatively intact and of high quality. Intact remnants are likely to retain a greater component of the characteristic plant and animal species, and ecological functions supporting the health and regeneration of the ecological community. Where species are lost from sites, they may not be easy to restore. This principle is highlighted in the National Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration in Australia (Standards Reference Group SERA, 2021): “Ecological restoration is not a substitute for sustainably managing and protecting ecosystems in the first instance. The promise of restoration cannot be invoked as a justification for destroying or damaging existing ecosystems because functional natural ecosystems are not transportable or easily rebuilt once damaged and the success of ecological restoration cannot be assured.” Standards Reference Group SERA (2021) – Appendix 2 p.40. The principle discourages ‘offsets’ where remnants are removed with an undertaking to set aside and/or restore other sites. The destruction of any patch of the ecological community should be presumed to be a permanent loss because there is no guarantee all the species and ecological functions of the site can be replicated elsewhere. Where restoration is to be undertaken, it should be planned and implemented with reference to the National Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration in Australia. These

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Standards guide how ecological restoration actions should be undertaken and are available online from the Standards Reference Group SERA (2021)7. They outline the principles that convey the main ecological, biological, technical, social and ethical underpinnings of ecological restoration practice. Given the general principle that retention and maintenance is preferable and has greater certainty than restoration, there are committed individuals and organisations who are willing to invest time and resources in attempting restoration of remnants of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. With the heavy losses from the former extent of the ecological community and degraded and isolated state of remnants, these painstaking efforts are important contributions to conservation of the threatened ecological community and the recovery of landscape functions. Restoration ecology is a developing field. Since the development of the initial recovery plan for the ecological community (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004) practitioners of restoration activities have gained further experience and knowledge. It is important to reflect on these experiences in managing threats by activities such as weed removal, reintroducing or recovering component species, undertaking periodic management activities such as ecological management burns and adapting restoration projects as site- level experience accumulates. The knowledge and practices of Traditional Owners/Custodians should also be acknowledged and considered, along with opportunities to support the implementation and culturally appropriate transmission of this knowledge as part of cultural connections to country. To achieve cost-effective investments in conservation management it is important to consider the likely interaction of the various management actions being undertaken at any one site, as these may be synergistic or antagonistic. There are also likely to be interactions between sites. Additionally, when allocating management resources, it is important to consider what is the minimum investment required for success and the follow-up required to secure long-term recovery (for example, what are the complementary activities, such as fire management followed by weed control, and for how many years should this weed management be continued).

5.4 Priority conservation and research actions Priority actions are recommended for the abatement of threats and supporting recovery of the ecological community. They are designed to provide guidance for: • planning, management and restoration of the ecological community by landholders, Natural Resource Managers and community groups and other land managers; • conditions of approval for relevant controlled actions under the EPBC Act; and • prioritising activities in applications for Australian Government funding programs. Detailed advice on actions may be available in specific plans, such as management plans for weeds, fire or certain parks or regions. The most relevant at the time this conservation advice was developed are listed in section 4.3.

7 Society for Ecological Restoration: www.seraustralasia.com/standards/contents.html

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This conservation advice identifies priority conservation actions under the following key approaches: • PROTECT the ecological community to prevent further losses; • MANAGE AND RESTORE the ecological community by active abatement of threats, appropriate management, restoration and other conservation initiatives; • COMMUNICATE, ENGAGE WITH AND SUPPORT people to increase understanding of the value and function of the ecological community and encourage their efforts in its protection and recovery; and • RESEARCH AND MONITOR to improve our understanding of the ecological community and the best methods to aid its management and recovery. These approaches overlap in practice and form part of an iterative approach to management that includes research, planning, management, monitoring and review. The actions listed below are an overview of the types of activities that may benefit the ecological community and include some considerations for planning activities. They highlight general but key actions required to at least maintain survival of the ecological community at the time of preparing this Conservation Advice. Avoid undertaking activities inconsistent with these conservation actions or likely to significantly adversely affect the ecological community.

5.4.1 PROTECT THE ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY This key approach includes priorities intended to protect the ecological community by preventing further losses to extent and integrity. 5.4.1.1 PLAN FOR PROTECTION • The ecological community should be properly taken into account during the early stages of zoning and development planning decisions, including strategic planning documents at state, regional and local levels. As the ecological community has already been listed as threatened at both state and national level for many years its value is widely understood and is likely to already be incorporated in many planning documents. • Liaise with local councils and State authorities to ensure that cumulative impacts on the ecological community are reduced as part of broader strategic planning or large projects (e.g. road works, developments). • Prevent the use of offsets as a means to allow development of areas where the ecological community and its ecotonal zones occur. 5.4.1.2 CONSERVE REMAINING PATCHES There should be no further clearance and damage to this ecological community because it has been greatly reduced in its extent. • Protect and conserve remaining areas of the ecological community. • Prevent further clearance and destruction of the ecological community. • Retain other native vegetation near patches of the ecological community, where they are important for connectivity, diversity of habitat and act as buffer zones between the ecological community and threats or development zones. • Protect patches identified as wildlife refuges or in formal conservation reserves. Consider other patches for less formal conservation tenures, preferably ones that aim for protection over the long-term. This includes investigating formal conservation

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arrangements, management agreements and covenants to protect patches on private land. This is particularly important for larger patches or areas that link to other patches of native vegetation or that are part of wildlife corridors or migration routes. • Where regeneration is occurring, provide measures that will support the regeneration to maturity (e.g. provide fencing to minimise damage risk). • Protect mature and over-mature trees and stags, particularly those with hollows present. While the ecological community does not have abundant trees, where these occur either in or nearby they may have numerous fissures that provide habitat. Large trees present in areas nearby the ecological community may support fauna that also use the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. 5.4.1.3 MANAGE ACTIONS TO MINIMISE IMPACTS • Apply the mitigation hierarchy to avoid, then mitigate, then offset potential impacts on the ecological community from development or other actions. The priority is to avoid further clearance and fragmentation of remnants with offsetting as the last resort. • Plan projects to avoid the need to offset, by avoiding significant impacts to the ecological community. • In circumstances where impacts cannot be totally avoided, then they should be minimised by: • retaining and avoiding damage to high quality patches, which should be managed to retain their benchmark state; and • protecting important habitat features, such as large mature trees or stags with hollows as these take many decades to develop and cannot be quickly replaced. • Where impacts are unavoidable, offsets should be used as a last resort to compensate for the adverse impacts of the action deemed unavoidable. The outcomes of offsetting activities are generally highly uncertain. Any proposals considering offsets for this ecological community should:

o minimise the need to offset the ecological community by designing development around the ecological community and applying buffers;

o retain medium and higher quality patches of the ecological community, rather than offset them (particularly with lower quality offset sites);

o manage and protect offset areas in perpetuity in areas dedicated for conservation purposes - avoid risks that reduce may their size, condition and ecological function in the future;

o select offset sites as close as possible to the impact site, to allow for local and regional variation in the ecological community;

o increase the area and improve ecological function of existing patches, for example by enhancing landscape connectivity, habitat diversity and condition;

o focus on the restoration of lower quality patches of the ecological community to achieve high quality condition;

o extend protection to otherwise unprotected sites (e.g. sites that are currently too small or degraded to meet the minimum condition thresholds, but can reasonably be restored to a better, more intact condition that does meet the thresholds);

o maintain a register of offsets for the ecological community; and

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o monitor offset areas and the outcomes they deliver over the long-term, to manage them adaptively and improve understanding of the best ways to manage offsets to delivery biodiversity benefits. • Minimise the risk of indirect impacts to the ecological community from actions outside but near to patches of the ecological community. For example, protect patches from nutrient runoff from adjacent land covers such as turf. • Avoid activities that are inconsistent with the fire regime considered appropriate for the ecological community using the best information available information. Ensure that fire management activities (including creation of any new fire access tracks) do not have detrimental impacts on the integrity of the ecological community. For further information on fire management see section 5.4.2.2. 5.4.1.4 APPLY BUFFER ZONES • Protect and apply appropriate buffers, particularly of other native vegetation, around patches of the ecological community to minimise off-site impacts. A buffer zone is a contiguous area adjacent to a patch that is important for protecting the integrity of the ecological community. As the risk of indirect damage to an ecological community is usually greater where actions occur close to a patch, the purpose of the buffer zone is to minimise this risk by guiding land managers to be aware that the ecological community is nearby and take extra care. For instance, the buffer zone will help protect the root zone around the edge of the patch and other components of the ecological community from spray drift (fertiliser, pesticide or herbicide sprayed in adjacent land), weed invasion, polluted water runoff and other damage. The best buffer zones are typically comprised of native vegetation. Judgement should be exercised to determine an appropriate buffer distance, depending on circumstances and how a patch may be impacted. A buffer zone of at least 50 m (beyond the vegetation in the patch) is recommended. Where possible a larger buffer will provide greater protection. Where it is not feasible to apply a wide buffer, other means should be used to minimise impacts of activities in the vicinity of patches (for example by moderating the use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers or applying them using more closely controlled methods and in consultation with ecological experts). Fire breaks and other asset protection zones do not typically provide a suitable buffer and should be additional to a vegetated buffer. 5.4.1.5 PREVENT THE INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD OF EXOTIC SPECIES • Support strong border biosecurity and avoid importing or accidentally introducing invasive species and pathogens that may have a serious adverse impact on this ecological community. • Manage soil nutrient enrichment and excessive moisture from the entry of contaminated stormwater and sewer overflows. Treat and redirect contaminated stormwater to minimise or avoid further harm to remnants. • Prevent planting of known or potentially invasive species in gardens, developments and landscaping near the ecological community, especially those involving planting of known transformer weeds or bird-dispersed species. • Avoid the sale of known invasive species in areas where the ecological community occurs. • Restrict vehicle access. When conducting activities in or around the ecological community, practice good biosecurity hygiene to avoid spreading weeds or pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi or myrtle rust Austropuccinia psidii. • Minimise unnecessary soil disturbance that may facilitate weed establishment or reduce diversity within the ecological community.

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• Prevent dumping of garden waste into bushland, especially in or near patches of the ecological community. • If new incursions do occur, detect and control them early, as small infestations are more likely to be eradicated. • Limit access by rabbits particularly following burning, as they may introduce weeds (Lambert and Lambert 2015a,b) • Prevent further introduction of feral animals and, where possible, contain pets in nearby residential areas.

5.4.2 MANAGE THREATS AND RESTORE THE ECOLGICAL COMMUNITY This key approach includes priorities to restore and maintain the remaining patches of the ecological community by active abatement of threats, appropriate management, restoration and other conservation initiatives. Restoration actions should be based on the best available knowledge and scientific research to maximise positive biodiversity outcomes. Given the very severely fragmented distribution of the ecological community, overarching actions for the ecological community and native vegetation of the region should aim to create situations in patches that are more interior-like and create or simulate natural disturbances. • Implement effective adaptive management regimes using information from available research and management guidelines, for example, see the National Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration in Australia (SERA 2021), relevant research or advice from local authorities. • Restoration actions should be based on the best available knowledge and scientific research to maximise positive biodiversity outcomes. • Identify and prioritise other specific threats and undertake appropriate on-ground site management strategies where required. • Return natural hydrological flow regimes wherever and whenever possible. • Seek opportunities to facilitate passive regeneration e.g. following thinning of Coastal Teatree or burning viable seed may still be present in the soil (Clements et al 2001 cited in DEC 2004; Lambert and Lambert 2015a). 5.4.2.1 MANAGE WEEDS, PESTS AND DISEASES Implement effective integrated control and management techniques for weeds, pests and diseases affecting the ecological community and manage sites to prevent the introduction of new, or further spread of, invasive species. Refer to published guidelines for control of individual invasive species, but also consider the interactions between species. Control programs should be risk-assessed and managed to avoid impacting non-target species or having unintended consequences (e.g. consider habitat requirements of native species and likelihood of erosion before removing weeds). • In this ecological community Bitou Bush, Lantana and African Love Grass are commonly identified as key weeds but others such as Turkey Rhubarb are also problematic at some sites. Map weed occurrence and severity to prioritise management in patches for which management is most urgent. • Plan and budget for both initial weed management and for follow up treatment for as long as this is likely to be needed. • Identify potential new weed incursions early and manage for local eradication, where possible.

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• Target control of key weeds that threaten the ecological community using best practice bush regeneration techniques, ensuring that weed control is carried out in successive years until weeds are under control or eradicated. • Avoid impacts to non-target species or watercourses. Consider that in some cases weeds may be providing some services such as habitat, or preventing damage by unauthorised access. • Encourage appropriate use of local native plant species in developments in the region through local government and industry initiatives and best practice strategies. Prevent plantings that are known or likely to be invasive or otherwise harmful. • Control introduced pest animals such as cats, foxes, rabbits and deer through coordinated landscape-scale control programs. For example, work with relevant authorities to suppress feral animal numbers in line with regional pest management strategies (for example Office of Environment and Heritage 2012). In particular, before and after prescribed burning, rabbits should be controlled to allow successful regeneration and recruitment of new plants (Lambert and Lambert 2015 a, b; Strauch 2015). • Implement controls to prevent or reduce infection by fungal pathogens, especially Phythopthora dieback (Phytophthora cinnamomi) and myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii). In particular, maintaining soil hygiene when undertaking any work such as fire management, planting and weeding is critical. Limit visitor access to paths and install hygiene stations where necessary. 5.4.2.2 MANAGE FIRE The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub is highly dependent on suitable fire regimes for maintaining its characteristic structure and diverse floristic assemblage. Traditionally this is likely to have been managed by Indigenous people’s burning for various purposes. In a highly modified landscape with patches in various states of condition the appropriate fire treatments should be determined for each site. Ongoing experimentation and research should also be used to guide fire management. Planning fire management in the urban context with varied land use history of many remnants must take into account a wide variety of factors (Strauch 2015).

• Use a landscape-scale approach and available local knowledge on fire histories to identify sites that would benefit from reinstating appropriate fire frequency to prevent further declines of patches affected by either low or high fire frequency:

o For areas of the ecological community subject to low fire frequency, identify opportunities for applying appropriate ecological burns, including with traditional knowledge and practices where these are shared.

o For areas of the ecological community subject to high fire frequency, identify options for reducing the frequency of fires and protecting important features, such as high value habitat.

o Fire management strategies at each location should take into account patch size and condition, fire history, fire sensitive flora and fauna present, habitat features (e.g. protect nearby hollow-bearing trees, large logs and refugia), vegetation structure and the surrounding landscape (including property protection) to minimise damage, maintain refuges for fauna (during and after fire) and increase habitat variability.

o Minimise soil disturbance when undertaking burning and follow-up activities.

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• As a general recommendation a frequency of 10-15 years has been identified, with gaps between burns of over 30 years likely to lead to reduction in diversity (DECC 2009). The size of the areas to be burnt and the desired intensity of the fires are further considerations for each patch. Ideally the fires will stimulate the native seed bank in the soil and allow germination. • Fires (including planned burns) must be managed to: maintain the integrity of the ecological community and avoid disruption of the life cycles of the component species and those in surrounding areas, support rather than degrade the habitat; avoid invasion of exotic species, and avoid increased impacts of other threats such as drought, grazing or predation by feral predators. Isolated faunal populations and threatened plants are particularly vulnerable to local extinction following intense fires combined with other threats. Therefore:

o Ensure that an invasive species risk assessment and management program is planned and budgeted for ahead of proposed burning and implemented in the first and subsequent growing seasons, with appropriate monitoring to guide when and where to eliminate pests. In particular, rabbits should be controlled after fires (and where possible, before fires).

o Use available ecological information to avoid detrimental fire impacts on key and susceptible species in the ecological community; for instance, do not burn areas in or adjacent to the ecological community when key, threatened or functionally important flora and fauna that may be impacted are flowering, nesting or otherwise reproducing (e.g., Long-nosed Bandicoot and Little Penguin at North Head, also the threatened plant species Acacia terminalis subsp. terminalis (Sunshine Wattle) and Eucalyptus camfieldii (Heart-leaved Stringybark).

o Consider weather conditions and do not burn in or adjacent to the ecological community when soil moisture is relatively low, or dry conditions are predicted for the coming season as flora and fauna are already stressed, recovery will be too slow and erosion may occur or weeds become established while the vegetation cover is reduced.

o Particularly where there are few nearby areas of suitable habitat, species are not mobile or resources are otherwise limited consider providing shelter and food to fauna after fire. • Where hazard reduction burns or prescribed fires are undertaken in areas near to the ecological community, ensure that the potential for the fire to escape is appropriately risk assessed and management responses are in place to protect the ecological community. • Monitor the outcomes of fire and the consequences from other threats, and manage within an appropriate time (for example, immediately put in place erosion control measures; limit access by grazers and feral predators; control weeds as they first appear with follow up treatments as necessary until native vegetation has regenerated). At some sites where regeneration is heavily dominated by some colonising species such as Acacia longifolia it may be appropriate to thin these seedlings to speed recruitment of other species and thereby increase diversity. Ensure the results are taken into account when planning and implementing future fire regimes. For further information on monitoring priorities see Section 5.4.4 5.4.2.3 PREVENT TRAMPLING AND INAPPROPRIATE ACCESS • Install fencing, gates, formal tracks and signs to manage access and prevent rubbish dumping. • Exclude and/or constrain access by horses and deer.

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• Allocate appropriate education and enforcement resources to dissuade inappropriate access to and use of remnants. 5.4.2.4 UNDERTAKE RESTORATION • Plan any restoration works mindful of fire risks and other likely effects of a rapidly changing climate. • Undertake restoration, including bush regeneration and revegetation, of poorer and moderate quality patches to restore them to higher quality. Restoration works to reconnect isolated patches to other areas of native vegetation is also valuable.

o Support natural regeneration (e.g. using fenced areas, weed and pest control, and fire) before planning and implementing replanting programs. In some cases where species that are part of the ecological community, such as Leptospermum laevigatum, have become dominant to the exclusion of most other species, some thinning may be appropriate (Lambert and Lambert 2015). Past experience suggests that the seed bank may remain viable for some years and be stimulated by fire (Clements et al 2001 cited in DEC 2004; Lesak 2000 cited in Lambert and Lambert 2015). Replant areas with suitable plants where natural regeneration has not been successful.

o Maintain stags, logs, and mature and old-growth trees with hollows in or around the ecological community as they provide important habitat for fauna.

o Use local native species in restoration/revegetation projects for the ecological community and restore understorey vegetation to a structure and diversity appropriate to the site.

o In general, use locally collected seeds, where available, to revegetate native plant species. However, choosing sources of seed closer to the margins of their range, particularly from more northerly areas may increase resilience to climate change.

o Seed collections should follow appropriate national guidelines and protocols with long-term storage of germplasm in an appropriate State facility.

o Ensure care is taken to maintain soil and planting hygiene to avoid introducing diseases such as Phythophthora cinnamomi or myrtle rust . Minimise soil disturbance.

o Ensure commitment to follow up after planting, such as the care of newly planted vegetation by watering, mulching, weeding and use/removal of tree guards.

o Consider the landscape context and other relevant species and communities when planning restoration works. For example, ensure adjacent ecological communities and threatened and migratory species are not adversely impacted by restoration activities for the ecological community. • Where appropriate habitat is available and predators can be sufficiently controlled re- introduction of some fauna species, including those supporting important ecological functions may be possible.

o Consider the size of the gene pool and interactions with naturally occurring populations when introducing fauna.

5.4.3 COMMUNICATE, ENGAGE AND SUPPORT This key approach includes priorities to promote the ecological community to build awareness and encourage people and groups to contribute to its recovery. This includes

35 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft communicating, engaging with and supporting the public and key stakeholders to increase their understanding of the value and function of the ecological community and to encourage and assist their efforts in its protection and recovery. Key groups to communicate with include landholders, land managers including Natural Resource Management groups, land use planners, researchers, community members and Indigenous communities, schools and volunteers.

5.4.3.1 RAISE AWARENESS • Educate people and groups about the flora, fauna and ecological values and threats to the ecological community (e.g. adjacent landuse, human disturbance and weeds). This may be done through the distribution of relevant publications, installing interpretive signs at strategic locations, such as at parks and golf courses; school programs and establishing a demonstration site for the ecological community. • Encourage landholders to protect patches through long-term private land conservation mechanisms. • Communicate with landholders/managers, relevant agencies and the public to emphasise the value of the ecological community, the key threats, its significance, and appropriate management and to highlight the importance of its protection and restoration. Encourage landholders to talk with local Natural Resource Management organisations and other knowledgeable groups to design suitable management approaches to maintain and improve the condition of the ecological community while allowing other land uses, such as recreation. • With permission, include culturally appropriate information on traditional knowledge and values in education and awareness programs, publications and signage. • Undertake effective community engagement and education to highlight the importance of minimising disturbance (e.g. during recreational activities) and of minimising firewood collection, pollution and littering. • Liaise with public authorities and the community about the impacts of domestic animals, particularly cats, and ways to minimise these (such as cat containment). • Inform landholders about incentives, such as conservation agreements, stewardship projects, funding and NRM programs etc. that may apply to help look after sites on private lands. 5.4.3.2 GATHER AND PROVIDE INFORMATION • Develop education programs, information products and signage to help the public recognise the presence and importance of the ecological community, and their responsibilities under state and local regulations and the EPBC Act. • Improve understanding of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and identify and support culturally appropriate mechanisms to share and maintain this knowledge to protect and restore the ecological community. • Install signage to discourage damaging activities such as the removal of dead timber, dumping garden waste and other rubbish, creating informal paths and tracks, and the use of off-road vehicles in patches of the ecological community. • Install significant vegetation markers along roads to designate areas of the ecological community to protect and prevent inappropriate roadside maintenance from occurring. • Promote knowledge about local weeds and what garden plants to avoid planting. Discourage the sale of weed species. Recommend local native species for

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revegetation and landscaping or safe alternative garden plants, including identifying species characteristic of the ecological community. • Promote the planting of characteristic species in the areas where the ecological community once occurred, especially if suitable soils are still present. 5.4.3.3 COORDINATE EFFORTS • Support opportunities for Traditional Owners/Custodians or other members of the Indigenous community to manage the ecological community, including those with experience in Indigenous cultural management and ecological responses (e.g. cultural burning, where it will benefit areas of the ecological community). • Encourage local participation in restoration and landcare efforts through local conservation groups, creating ‘friends of’ groups with activities such as field days and planting projects. • Support coordination of management of invasive species across land tenures. • Liaise with local fire management authorities and agencies and engage their support in fire management of the ecological community. Request these agencies to use suitable maps and install field markers to avoid damage to sensitive areas of the ecological community. Ensure land managers are given information about how to manage fire risks to conserve any threatened species and ecological communities, particularly in the context of a changing climate. • Promote awareness and protection of the ecological community with relevant agencies and industries. For example with:

o state and local government planning authorities, to ensure that planning takes the protection of remnants into account, with due regard to principles for long- term conservation;

o land owners and developers, to minimise threats associated with land conversion and development;

o local councils and state authorities, to ensure infrastructure or development works involving substrate or vegetation disturbance do not adversely impact the ecological community. This includes avoiding the introduction or spread of weeds;

o regional authorities, NRM organisations and local councils to collaborate on threat management and planning with neighbouring authorities.

5.4.4 RESEARCH AND MONITORING This key approach includes priorities for research into the ecological community, and monitoring, to improve understanding of the ecological community and the best methods to aid its recovery through restoration and protection. Relevant and well-targeted research and other information gathering activities are important in informing the protection and management of the ecological community. 5.4.4.1 MAPPING • Identify gaps in knowledge on the locations and condition of patches of the ecological community. • Conduct targeted field surveys and ground-truth to fill data gaps and clarify the presence and condition of patches of the ecological community. • Identify and map the fire interval status of the ecological community and surrounding fire-dependent and/or fire sensitive vegetation.

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5.4.4.2 RESEARCH INFORMING OPTIONS FOR MANAGEMENT Review current information and identify knowledge gaps, including the following. • Research into appropriate and integrated methods to manage pests and weeds that affect the ecological community. • Research into the regeneration requirements of the species characteristic of the ecological community and their susceptibility to disease. • Investigate use of fire and seed supplementation to enable recruitment of plant species in remnants • Investigate the interaction between disturbance types, such as fire and invasion by weeds and feral animals, to determine how an integrated approach to threat management can be implemented. • Research and collate existing knowledge to improve understanding of succession in the ecological community and effects of disturbance, for example, under what conditions patches become dominated by a small number of species such as Leptospermum laevigatum and Kunzea ambigua. • Research into potential impacts of climate change on the current distribution of the ecological community, its composition and function. • Investigate ways to improve resilience to climate change through other threat abatement and management actions. • Research to improve understanding of the role of fire in this ecological community. • Investigate key ecological interactions, such as the role of fauna in pollination, seed dispersal and nutrient cycling. • Determine optimal patch sizes, edge-to-core ratios, and maximum gaps between patches to allow for viability, dispersal and migration of key flora and fauna. • Conduct research leading to the development of effective landscape-scale restoration techniques for the ecological community, recognising that it grades into other ecological communities. This includes restoring the faunal component of the ecological community. • Investigate the most cost-effective options for restoring landscape function, including re-vegetation or assisted regeneration of priority areas, potentially buffering, connecting and protecting existing remnants. Identify priority areas for restoration of networks for key species across ecological community and tenure types. 5.4.4.3 MONITORING It is important that any monitoring is planned before management commences and considers what data are required to address research questions. Monitoring must also be resourced for management activities, especially for those using a novel approach, and applied during and following the management action. • Monitor for incursions by new weeds, pest animals and diseases. • Monitor for signs of decline, in terms of known problems e.g. spread of invasive species. • Monitor the impacts of drought and fires on flora and fauna, including recruitment of dominant tree species. • Monitor changes in the condition, composition, structure and function of the ecological community, including response to all types of management actions and

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use this information to increase understanding of the ecological community and inform recommendations for future management. • Monitor the impacts of development, including increased fragmentation and edge effects, and any offsets approved under national environment law.

6 LISTING ASSESSMENT 6.1 Eligibility for listing against the EPBC Act criteria On the basis of available information, the draft assessment indicates that the ecological community is eligible for listing as critically endangered, under Criterion 1 and 4. This was the highest conservation category met at the time of the draft assessment assessment. The ecological community also meets Criterion 2 at the level of ‘endangered’. This draft assessment uses the criteria set out in the EPBC Regulations and the Guidelines for nominating and assessing ecological communities.

6.1.1 Criterion 1 – decline in geographic distribution May be eligible under Criterion 1 for listing as Critically Endangered. Category Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Its decline in geographic distribution is either: very severe severe substantial a) Decline relative to the longer- term (beyond 50 years ago e.g. ≥90% ≥70% ≥50% since 1750); or, b) Decline relative to the ≥80% ≥50% ≥30% shorter-term (past 50 years).

Eligible under Criterion 1 for listing as Critically Endangered. Evidence: The NSW Government is currently revising the Plant Community Type mapping for coastal NSW. A recently updated dataset of Threatened Ecological Communities within Greater Sydney identifies 512 ha of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Basin Bioregion (State Government of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment 2021). The best available estimate of the pre 1750 extent of the ecological community was made by the NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2017). The NSW Committee estimated the pre-1750 spatial extent or the ecological community between Hawkesbury River and Royal National Park (inclusive) to be between 5355 ha and 9643 ha. This entails a total loss of the ecological community of between 90.4% and 94.7% of its former area (Table 3).

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Table 3 Estimates of past and current extent and decline for the ecological community. Current Pre-European Remaining Decline extent (ha) extent (ha) extent (%) (%) State (NSW Government Threatened of NSW and Species Department Scientific of Planning, Committee Industry and 2017) Environment 2021 Upper bound of estimated pre-1750 512 9643 5.3% 94.7% extent between Hawkesbury River and Royal National Park Lower bound of estimated pre-1750 512 5355 9.6% 90.4% extent between Hawkesbury River and Royal National Park

Thus, the likely range of proportion of former extent remaining is 5.3% to 9.6%. This is consistent with the pattern of heavy clearing primarily for urban development across the greater Sydney metropolitan region. The NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee estimated a slightly higher loss of extent of 91.2% – 97.4%. This loss of at least 90% since 1750 is a very severe decline in geographic distribution. It is likely that the ecological community has met the relevant elements of Criterion 1 to make it eligible for listing as Critically Endangered. This decline in geographic distribution since 1750 would also represent a Critically Endangered status under Criterion A3 of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems (Bland et al 2017).

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Criterion 2 – limited geographic distribution coupled with demonstrable threat Criterion 2 - Limited geographic distribution coupled with demonstrable threat Its geographic distribution is: Very Restricted Limited restricted 2.1. Extent of occurrence (EOO) < 100 km2 <1,000 km2 <10,000 km2 = <10,000 ha = <100,000 ha = <1,000,000 ha 2.2. Area of occupancy (AOO) < 10 km2 <100 km2 <1,000 km2 = <1,000 ha = <10,000 ha = <100,000 ha

2.3. Patch size < 0.1 km2 < 1 km2 - = <10 ha = <100 ha AND the nature of its distribution makes it likely that the action of a threatening process could cause it to be lost in: the Immediate future Critically Endangered Vulnerable [within10 years, or 3 generations of any endangered long-lived or key species, whichever is the longer, up to a maximum of 60 years.] the Near future Endangered Endangered Vulnerable [within 20 years, or 5 generations of any long-lived or key species, whichever is the longer, up to a maximum of 100 years.] The Medium term future Vulnerable Vulnerable Vulnerable [within 50 years, or 10 generations of any long-lived or key species, whichever is the longer, up to a maximum of 100 years.]

May be eligible under Criterion 2 for listing as Endangered.

Evidence: The extent of occurrence is estimated to be 156 km2 based on a minimum convex polygon enclosing occurrences (NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2017 using data from Tozer et al 2010 and OEH 2013). This meets the criterion 2 requirements for ‘restricted’. It is noted that of this area 65km2 is identified as ocean- if this area were excluded, the extent of occurrence would fit within the category ‘very restricted’. The area of occupancy for the ecological community is 512 ha (see criterion 1), which is considered very restricted. Patch size The mean patch size of the ecological community) is 2.86 ha; the median size is 0.3 ha8. This meets the Criterion 2 definition of ‘very restricted’.

8 Patches were defined using polygons of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub within DPIE 2021. Polygons within 5m of each other were amalgamated to define patches of the ecological community.

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The ecological community has a severely fragmented distribution (Table 4). Approximately 96% of remnants (covering 37% of the total area) are less than 10 ha. Across the ecological community only eight patches are larger than 10 ha. The largest individual patch is 83 ha. Prior to fragmentation, patches of the ecological community are likely to have joined areas of other native vegetation, which has generally been heavily cleared across the region, particularly in the central areas of the range of the ecological community. Table 4: Patch sizes. Source: State Government of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment 2021 (combining polygons within 5m to form patches) Patch size Number Number Area Area Cumulative Cumulative Cumulative class of of (ha) (% of % of area number of % of patches patches total) patches patches (% of total) Patches < 42 23.5% 2.2 0.4% 0.4% 42 23.5% 0.1 ha Patches 88 49.2% 35.8 7.0% 7.4% 130 72.6% 0.1 to <1 ha Patches 41 22.9% 151.8 29.7% 37.1% 171 95.5% >1-to <10 ha Patches 8 4.5% 321.8 62.9% 100.0% 179 100.0% >10 to <100 ha

Total 179 511.7

The nature of the current distribution makes it very susceptible to edge effects and to the actions of various threats, particularly invasive species, further fragmentation and cumulative loss of patches. Weed invasion is a problem, particularly with the close proximity of urban areas and high likelihood of disturbance at patch margins. In identifying disturbance OEH (2016) attributed approximately 30% of the disturbance in the polygons with ‘extensive disturbance’ to weeds. ‘Roads and trails’ were identified as contributing to disturbance over 19% of the total area of the ecological community. With the loss of traditional burning regimes since Indigenous dispossession and changes in land use and landscape, the fire ecology of the ecological community is greatly altered. Given the very particular dependence of the ecological community on suitable fire regimes, with a very small and fragmented area, in the context of climate change and extreme fire weather, the risk of substantial damage by unplanned fire is high. For example, at North Head, a substantial part of the remnant area of the ecological community was accidentally burned in an intense fire in October 2020 (Australian Wildlife Conservancy 2020). There was little evidence of regeneration of some areas 6 months later, in spite of rainfall. Climate change is also likely to cause other losses and changes beyond those associated with unplanned fire, with changes in water availability, incursions of invasive species and changes in temperature extremes that may be beyond tolerances of some species in the ecological community (Dunlop et al 2017). This may cause fundamental changes to the nature of the ecological community, which is in a weakened state of resilience due to its fragmented nature reducing ecological connectivity and the availability of features such as accessible refugia in the landscape. The collective action of these threatening processes has the potential to cause the loss of the ecological community in the near future (within five generations of the predominant shrubby layer

42 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft species of the ecological community) or immediate future (within 3 generations of the predominant shrubby layer species of the ecological community). 9 The ecological community has a very restricted geographic distribution, on the basis of its small patch size. The fragmented nature of this distribution makes it likely that the combined action of threatening processes could cause it to be lost in the near or immediate future. It is likely that the ecological community has met the relevant elements of Criterion 2 to make it eligible for listing as Endangered or Critically Endangered.

6.1.2 Criterion 3 – decline of functionally important species Criterion 3 - Loss or decline of functionally important species

Category Critically Endangered Vulnerable Endangered For a population of a very severe decline severe decline substantial decline native species likely to play a major role in the community, there is a: Estimated decline over at least 80% at least 50% at least 20% the last 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer of: to the extent that the immediate future the near future the medium-term restoration of the future community is not likely to be possible in: restoration of the 10 years, or 3 20 years, or 5 50 years, or 10 ecological community as a generations of any generations of any generations of any whole is unlikely in long-lived or key long-lived or key long-lived or key species, whichever is species, whichever is species, whichever the longer, up to a the longer, up to a is the longer, up to maximum of 60 years. maximum of 100 a maximum of 100 years. years.

Insufficient data to determine eligibility under Criterion 3.

Evidence: There has been significant loss of area of species of flora and fauna supporting the function of the ecological community. For example, Long-nosed Bandicoot (Perameles nasuta), is likely to have formerly had a role in conditioning soils across the range of the ecological community, but is now absent from most sites in the central area. However, no one species acts alone in maintaining the ecological processes of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Rather it likely to be groups of species, such as several Banksia species, or groups of fauna (such as pollinating birds or digging/scratching ground mammals and birds), that address

9 The generation time for this ecological community is defined with relation to the recommended fire regime to maintain a diverse vegetation assemblage. The recommended interval is 10-15 years, while fire exclusion for more than 30 years is not recommended (Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW 2009). Thus, for considering the likely decline of this ecological community under Criterion 2, five generations for the key species are expected to be in the order of 75 years.

43 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft key functional roles. These roles include habitat provision, nutrient cycling, seed dispersal and/or burial, water infiltration, and pollination. Furthermore, given the often permeable boundaries of the ecological community, the successful operation of these functions is likely to be strongly related to the characteristics of surrounding areas. The combined effect of these declines of functionally important species groups on the integrity ecological community is discussed in the response to Criterion 4. However, there is not currently sufficient data to support specific analysis against criterion 3 and its indicative thresholds, for loss of particular functionally important species within the ecological community. This it is likely that there is insufficient information to determine the eligibility of the ecological community for listing in any category under Criterion 3 at this time. Please provide any data or other information to support analysis of decline of relevant biota against the thresholds appropriate to this criterion.

6.1.3 Criterion 4 – reduction in community integrity Criterion 4 - Reduction in community integrity

Category Critically Endangered Vulnerable Endangered The reduction in its integrity across most of its geographic distribution is: as indicated by degradation of the very severe severe substantial community or its habitat, or disruption of important community processes, that is:

May be eligible under Criterion 4 for listing as Critically Endangered.

Evidence: The location of ecological community along the coastline of the most populous area in Australia has had many consequences for its integrity and function. An assessment of disturbance levels across all native vegetation in the Sydney metropolitan region concluded that 71% had either no or low levels of disturbance, with only 9.5% assessed as having either ‘high’ or ‘very high’ levels of disturbance (OEH 2016a). In contrast, the same study found that 45% of the ecological community (interpreted here as areas of vegetation types s_HL_03 (Coastal Sand Mantle Heath) and s_HL04 (Coastal Sandplain Heath) within the range of the ecological community) was free of disturbance or at low levels, while 36% had ‘high’ or ‘very high’ levels of disturbance. This indicates that the overall visible condition of the ecological community is in a worse state than most native vegetation in the region. This is particularly the case for the expression of the ecological community on shallow sand mantles, for which only 3% was classified as having no visible disturbance or low disturbance, while 59% had either ‘high’ or ‘very high’ levels of disturbance (OEH 2016c). This is largely explained by its location in the most intensely developed areas of eastern Sydney. While this analysis recognised some of the types of disturbance to the ecological community visible in aerial photo analysis (including weeds, fire, erosion, roads and various artefacts of clearing), other types of damage such as loss of plant and animal species richness and diversity, reduced effectiveness of ecological processes such as genetic transfer through pollination or breeding success, predation and other effects of feral animals are not detectable through that analysis. These additional types

44 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft of damage must be considered as part of the overall threats to the integrity and persistence of the ecological community. This section will focus on three broad situations within the former range of the ecological community and the likely outlook for each: areas that have been built over; remnants in the central area; remnants in outer areas in considering the current integrity and outlook across the range of the ecological community. Areas that have been built over The low nutrient sand dunes where the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub is found are not suited to agriculture. Yet, the persistent acquisition of land for urban development near the coast has led to the loss of almost all of the original area of the ecological community. It is strongly associated with the soils where it occurs, with regeneration from a cleared state possible in some situations noted where these soils and the associated seed bank remain intact (Clements et al 2001 cited in DEC 2004; Lesak 2010 cited in Lambert and Lambert 2015a). The removal of or substantial damage to these soils substantially reduces any capacity for recovery. In many cases this occurred quite early following colonisation, for example, in the cut and fill process at Centennial Park in the 19th Century (Centennial Parklands undated). Further to this, in many cases the sites are further alienated by being built over. This is the case through most of the central area of the former range of the ecological community. For many of the fauna that are part of the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, these urban landscapes are hostile and dangerous, with little food available, competition and danger from domestic and other introduced animals. These areas are likely to be permanently lost to the ecological community and by creating a large gap in its north- south fabric the ecological function of the whole remaining area is also compromised. Remnants in the central area While most occurrences of the ecological community have been removed from the central area there are some remnants, primarily small patches, in reserves such as Centennial Park, Randwick Environment Park, Malabar Headland National Park and the La Perouse section of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, as well as on golf courses such as East Lake, The Lakes, Bonnie Doon, St Michael’s and NSW Golf Club. The remnant patches vary in size and condition, for example, within Centennial Park there are six remnants varying in condition dependent on their size, management history, access and use, with the poor and declining condition of the Queen’s Park remnant contrasted with the condition of York Road, where there has been substantial investment in management (Dunlop et al 2017). Most remnants in the central area are surrounded by built up areas, cleared areas or other land uses. For example, the closest patch of the ecological community to Randwick Environment Park is 2km away. Furthermore, there are no other patches of native vegetation closer to the park than this. This kind of isolation of patches has consequences for their ongoing function. For example, there is likely to be reduced exchange of genetic material through processes such as pollination, seed dispersal and interaction between populations of animals. In the event of loss of the patch there is also less chance of recovery through natural processes of recolonisation. For many of the fauna reliant on woody native vegetation gaps of this size are too wide to cross (Doerr et al 2010 described a mean threshold for fauna crossing between woody patches of 106m). Should individuals attempt this crossing through the urban matrix, the likelihood of mortality would be high. Some of the remnant patches are part of a more extensive network, such as those on some of the golf courses, which is a highly represented land use type in the areas where the ecological community occurs. The best remaining network might be at La Perouse, occurring on neighbouring properties including Kamay Botany Bay National Park, NSW Golf Club and St Michael’s Golf Club. Yet even here the patches are substantially fragmented, inherently compromising ecological processes at the local scale by decreasing the chances of

45 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft successful dispersal and increasing energy costs for foraging. Depending on the management of the patches and the matrix in which they sit, the high edge to core ratio also exposes very fragmented patches to problems such as weed invasion, Phytophthora cinnamomi, trampling, exposure to excess nutrients and runoff. Predators such as foxes and roaming domestic animals also have easy access to these patches. These small patches within the urban matrix are important to many people, but are likely to become easily degraded without substantial planning, investment and coordination between landholders that is reliant on the ongoing goodwill, interest and commitment of many (Dunlop et al 2017). For such investment and commitment in coordinated management of threats to occur continuously and result in the restoration of these urban remnants is at best uncertain. Furthermore, losses to clearing for development in this ecological community and in surrounding native vegetation are still occurring, worsening the situation of lost connectivity across the central area. For the majority of the former area that has been alienated by removal or substantial disturbance of soils, or by being built over, it is not likely that there will be restoration in any time frame. Remnants in the outer areas The areas of the ecological community that are outside of the central Sydney area are likely to be closest to their pre-1750 state. These larger and more intact areas include North Head, Kamay Botany National Park at Kurnell Peninsula and Royal National Park, particularly near Bundeena. These areas are larger and generally better connected with other remnant vegetation. However, even these areas have been subject to damage or face an uncertain future. At North Head substantial areas have been cleared and disturbed throughout its various uses including a military site and a quarantine station. During this time there were areas cleared and disturbed, which is postulated to have led to reduced diversity and over- dominance by Leptospermum laevigatum in some areas, causing a change in structure, composition and function of the ecological community. Following fires there has been intensive herbivory by rabbits, reducing the capacity for regeneration (Lambert and Lambert 2015b). At Kurnell Peninsula a history of clearing, grazing, sand mining and industrial activity (Salt, 2000 cited in Sutherland Environment Centre 2020) has reduced the area of native vegetation, with no prospect of recovery of these highly disturbed areas. The patches that have remained are subject to other pressures such as invasion of weeds. In some locations where there has been soil disturbance, for example for the installation of pipes or roads, the encroachment of weeds such as Bitou Bush and Lantana is severe and threatens the areas in better condition. Disturbance has been observed to be more severe on the southern side of the peninsula (OEH 2016). Invasive fauna are also a problem, including browsing Rusa deer (NSW Parks and Wildlife Service 2020) as well as cats and foxes, which both predate on native fauna, while foxes also spread weeds such as Bitou Bush OEH (2010). Deer are also an expanding problem in Royal National Park, where they trample and consume vegetation, with high densities recorded (Pedersen et al 2014; Office of Environment and Heritage 2013; 2016). Plant species richness in sandstone heath and woodland in the park has been measured to be 30-70% lower in high density than low density deer areas (NPWS 2002 cited in Office of Environment and Heritage 2013). Pedersen et al (2014) also observed that after fire there were lower numbers of small native mammals at sites with deer present. As with the damage by rabbits after fire at North Head and the dispersal of weeds by foxes, the interactions between different drivers of landscape change can lead to more extreme or unpredictable results. Across the range of the ecological community Across the ecological community there has been a loss of fauna species and a change in the role the fauna play. For example, Perameles nasuta (Long-nosed Bandicoot) was formerly found across the region, but within the ecological community it is largely restricted to the

46 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft outer lying areas such as North Head, where it is still believed to play an ecological role in, but may be at risk due to its isolation (NSW Scientific Committee 1997). There are also several records of the species in the Bundeena area of Royal National Park (Atlas of Living Australia 2021). The loss of this soil engineer throughout much of the range of the ecological community is indicative of a loss in function. Likewise, small mammals play a critical role in pollination of plant taxa including Banksias that are commonly present. However, some of the key pollinators are locally extinct in the Sydney region. Antechinus stuartii (Brown Antechinus), Cercartetus nanus (Eastern Pygmy Possum) and Rattus fuscipes (Bush Rat) have recently been experimentally reintroduced to North Head, after becoming locally extinct (Leo 2019). Their absence at other sites where the ecological community has altered the former patterns of pollination of plants that are part of the character and function of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. While some fauna have been lost, others such as Strepera graculina (Pied Currawong) have increased in abundance and now threaten the ecological community (Skelton et al 2003a). In the past, this predatory bird was a seasonal visitor to coastal areas, but with changing resource availability they are now permanent residents. They prey upon small fauna and spread weeds by distribution of seeds. The non-native predators, such as fox and cat now present in the region also have a substantial impact on native fauna (Office of Environment and Heritage 2013; National Parks and Wildlife Service 2020). Weed invasion is a problem across the ecological community, although the level of infestations vary with location and management investment. The NSW government Save Our Species program identified priority management sites across the ecological community (North Head, Randwick Environment Park, Malabar Headland, Harvey St, Little Bay, Kamay Botany National Park – North and South). At each of these sites control of the weeds Bitou bush, Lantana and African Love Grass was identified as important (Office of Environment and Heritage 2018). Bitou bush has also been identified within Royal National Park with its spread likely to be an ongoing threat (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012). It has been reported as being present along 90% of NSW sandy coastlines and is a Weed of National Significance (NSW Scientific Committee 1999). Fire is a key driver of change in ecological character and condition of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Since the displacement of Aboriginal people from much of the Sydney region from the late 18th Century traditional patch burning practices have largely been discontinued. As a result, some sites, such as North Head remained substantially unburned well beyond the current recommended interval of 10-15 years, likely reducing the floristic diversity (Skelton et al 2003, DEC 2009, Lambert and Lambert 2015). The risks of insufficient application of fire are countered by those of large and unplanned fires. In October 2020 a management fire escaped and burnt a substantial area of the site (estimated at 62ha of native vegetation, including patches of the ecological community Australian Wildlife Conservancy 2020). The speed and intensity of the fire was too great for many fauna to find refuge, and predation rates by birds were also high in the open landscape after the burn. Staff at the North Head sanctuary provided artificial shelter after the fire, as well as supplementary food to assist fauna observed to be in poor condition due to the limited food available (Hoerr, 2021). Six months after the fire there were few visible signs of regeneration at some sites. This demonstrates the vulnerability of even relatively large and well protected remnants. As climate changes throughout the region there is increased risk of drought and of large bushfires, such as those that burned vast areas of the south east coast of Australia in late 2019 and early 2020 (Hennessy et al 2005; Deb et al 2021). It is feasible that large areas of the ecological community could be lost in one wildfire, especially in the outer areas. Beyond the risks of fire, the ongoing change in climate towards overall hotter and drier conditions with greater extremes will place pressures on many species in the ecological community. This may result in greater mortality during extreme events, especially when access to refugia and sources of food are reduced. It may also result in longer term population declines due to reduced breeding success and survival rates. While some species will also benefit from changed conditions (including some exotic species), overall

47 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft turnover of species will fundamentally change the character of the ecological community present. Where this change is extreme, it may no longer fit the accepted description of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Summary Given the loss of much of the central area of the ecological community, with soil removal or built environments preventing restoration; the poor condition of remnants in the central area and dependence on intensive management, which is uncertain to be sustained; the ongoing consequences of loss of fauna, including soil engineers and key pollinators across much of the range; damage by invasive species through much or all of the range; the transformation of fire regimes, acknowledged to be key determinants of ecological character of the ecological community; and the probability of rapid and ongoing loss and change through the actions of climate change, particularly through risks of unsuitable fire occurrence; changes in integrity of the ecological community are very severe such that within the immediate future (considered to be three generations)10 the ecological community is likely to attain a state from which restoration across its range is unlikely. It is likely that the ecological community has met the requirements of Criterion 4 to make it eligible for listing as Critically Endangered.

6.1.4 Criterion 5 – rate of continuing detrimental change Criterion 5 - Rate of continuing detrimental change

Category Critically Endangered Vulnerable Endangered Its rate of continuing detrimental change is: as indicated by a) degradation of the community or its habitat, or disruption of important community processes, that is: very severe severe substantial or b) intensification, across most of its geographic distribution, in degradation, or disruption of important community processes, that is: • An observed, estimated, inferred or suspected detrimental change over the immediate# past or 80% 50% 30% projected for the immediate future of at least:

Insufficient data to determine eligibility under Criterion 5.

10 Three generations considered to be 45 years in accordance with the recommended time frame for fire occurrence to maintain ecological diversity (DEC 2009).

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Evidence: Consistent measurements to provide quantitative estimates of rates of continuing detrimental change (of extent or degradation) over a time series, have not been obtained to be able to address this criterion. However, change in extent from pre-1750 estimates is addressed under Criterion 1, and reduction in community integrity is addressed under Criterion 4. It is likely that there is insufficient information to determine the eligibility of the ecological community for listing in any category under this criterion. 6.1.5 Criterion 6 – quantitative analysis showing probability of extinction Criterion 6 - Quantitative analysis showing probability of extinction

Category Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable

A quantitative analysis shows that at least 50% in the at least 20% in at least 10% in its probability of extinction, or immediate future. the near the medium- extreme degradation over all of its future. term future. geographic distribution, is:

Insufficient data to determine eligibility under Criterion 6.

Evidence: Quantitative analysis of the probability of extinction or extreme degradation over all its geographic distribution has not been undertaken. Therefore, it is likely that there is insufficient information to determine the eligibility of the ecological community for listing in any category under this criterion.

49 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A - SPECIES LISTS These species are considered to be characteristic or frequently occurring based on the sources cited. The species listed may not necessarily be present in any given patch of the ecological community, and other native species not listed here may be present. The total list of species that may be found in the ecological community is considerably larger than the species listed here. Scientific names are nationally accepted names as per the Atlas of Living Australia, as at the time of writing.

A1 Flora Table 5 Characteristic or frequently occurring flora Depending on the composition of the individual patch individual taxa may be in more than one structural layer. Common names and structural classifications have been allocated with reference to Atlas of Living Australia and PlantNET (NSW Flora Online), as well as National Committee on Soil and Terrain (2009). Sources listed: 1) OEH (2016b) descriptions coastal sand mantle heath (S_HL03) and coastal sandplain heath (S_HL04) 2) NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2017) 3) Bionet Plant Community Type descriptions PCTs 664 and 1061 http://www.bionet.nsw.gov.au/ 4) PlantNET New South Wales Flora Online https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/ 5) Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) https://www.ala.org.au 6) Expert advice

Scientific Name Common Name Source Notes Trees Angophora costata Sydney Red Gum, Rusty Gum, 2,3 Smooth-barked Apple Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood 2,3 Eucalyptus botryoides Bangalay 6

Small trees and shrubs Scrub She-oak 1,2,3 Allocasuarina distyla

Aotus ericoides Common Aotis/Golden Pea 1,2

Banksia aemula Wallum Banksia 2,3

Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia Heath-leaved Banksia 2,3

Banksia marginata Silver Banksia 2 Banksia serrata Old Man Banksia, Saw-leaved 1,2,3,4 May grow Banksia, Wiryagan (Cadigal) to tree height

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Bossiaea ensata Sword Bossiaea 2,3

Bossiaea heterophylla 2 ,3

Bossiaea scolopendria 1,2 ,3

Brachyloma daphnoides subsp. 1,2,3 daphnoides

Ceratopetalum gummiferum NSW Christmas Bush 6

Darwinia fascicularis subsp. 2 fascicularis

Dillwynia retorta 2,3

Elaeocarpus reticulatus Blueberry Ash 1 Grevillea buxifolia Grey Spider Flower 1

Grevillea sphacelata Grey Spider Flower 1

Hakea dactyloides Finger Hakea, Broad-leaved 1 Hakea Hakea laevipes 1 Hibbertia linearis 1 Isopogon anemonifolius Broad-leaf Drumsticks 1,2,3 Kunzea ambigua Tick Bush 2 Lambertia formosa Mountain Devil 1,2,3

Leucopogon ericoides 1,2,3

Leptospermum laevigatum 1,2,3 Leptospermum 1,3 trinervium Melaleuca nodosa 2,3

Monotoca elliptica Tree Broom Heath 2,3

Monotoca scoparia Prickly Broom Heath 1,2

Persoonia lanceolata 2,3

Persoonia levis Broad-leaved Geebung 3 Philotheca buxifolia 2,3 Philotheca salsolifolia subsp. 2,3 salsolifolia Phyllota phylicoides Heath Phyllota 2

Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia 1,2,3

Ricinocarpos pinifolius Wedding Bush 1,2,3

Stenanthera pinifolia (syn. Astroloma Pine Heath 2 pinifolium)

Woollsia pungens 1,2,3 Ground Cover

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Austrostipa pubescens 1,2 Actinotus helianthi 2

Actinotus minor 2 Billardiera scandens Hairy Apple Berry 2 Caustis pentandra Thick Twist Rush Non woody but may have tall growth in some situations. Chordifex fastigiatus Tassel Rush Dampiera stricta 1,2,3 Dianella revoluta var revoluta 2 Entolasia stricta Wiry panic 1,3 Eragrostis brownii; 1,3 Gompholobium glabratum Dainty Wedge Pea 1 Gonocarpus teucrioides Raspwort 1,3 Haemodorum planifolium 1,3 Hibbertia fasciculata 1,2 Hypolaena fastigiata; Tassel Rope Rush 1,3 Lepidosperma concavum 2,3 Lepidosperma laterale Variable Sword-sedge 1,2,3 Lepyrodia scariosa 2 Lomandra glauca Pale Mat Rush 1,2,3 Lomandra longifolia; Spiny-headed Mat Rush 1,2,3 Patersonia glabrata Leafy Purple Flag 1,2 Platysace linearifolia Carrot Tops Pittosporum undulatum Native Daphne, Sweet 2 Pittosporum Pteridium esculentum Austral Bracken 1,2,3 Roots may be ground, roasted and eaten (ALA) Schoenus Heath Bog-rush 1,2,3 ericetorum Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass 2 Xanthorrhoea media 2 Xanthorrhoea resinosa (syn. 1,2,3 Xanthorrhoea resinifera) Xanthosia pilosa 1,2,3 Climbers Cassytha glabella Slender Devil’s twine 2 Cassytha pubescens Devil’s twine 1,2 Smilax glyciphylla Native Sarsparilla 6

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A2 Fauna Table 6 Native fauna that may be found in or near the ecological community Sources: 1) NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2017) 2) Pedersen et al (2014) 3) Atlas of Living Australia Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) https://www.ala.org.au Area searches using the ‘search my area’ tool, manual comparison with locations of the ecological community in State Government of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (2021).

Scientific name Common name Source Birds Accipiter (Leucospiza) fasciatus Brown Goshawk 3 Acrocephalus (Acrocephalus) australis Australian Reed Warbler 3 Alectura lathami Wild Turkey 3 Anthochaera (Anellobia) chrysoptera Little Wattlebird 3 Anthochaera (Anthochaera) carunculata Red wattlebird 3 Cacatua (Cacatua) galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo 3 Cacomantis (Vidgenia) flabelliformis Fan-tailed Cuckoo 3 Calyptorhynchus (Zanda) funereus Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo 3 Centropus (Polophilus) phasianinus Pheasant Coucal 3 Chalcites basalis Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo 3 Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae Silver Gull 3 Cisticola (Cisticola) exilis Golden-headed Cisticola 3 Coracina (Coracina) papuensis White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike 3 Corvus coronoides Australian Raven 3 Corvus mellori Little Raven 3 Coturnix (Synoicus) ypsilophora Swamp Quail 3 Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird 3 Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird 3 Dacelo (Dacelo) novaeguineae Kookaburra 3 Dicaeum (Dicaeum) hirundinaceum Mistletoebird 3 Dicrurus bracteatus Spangled Drongo 3 Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron 3 Egretta sacra Eastern Reef Egret 3 Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite 3 Elseyornis melanops Black-fronted Dotterel 3 Eolophus roseicapilla Galah 3 Eopsaltria (Eopsaltria) australis Eastern Yellow Robin 3 Epthianura (Aurepthianura) aurifrons Orange Chat 3 Epthianura (Epthianura) albifrons White-fronted Chat 3 Eudynamys orientalis Pacific Koel 3 Eudyptula minor Little Penguin 3 Falco (Falco) longipennis Australian Hobby 3 Falco (Hierofalco) peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 3

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Scientific name Common name Source Falco (Ieracidea) berigora Brown Falcon 3 Falco (Tinnunculus) cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel 3 Geopelia humeralis Bar-shouldered Dove 3 Gerygone mouki Brown Gerygone 3 Gliciphila melanops Tawny-crowned Honeyeater 3 Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark 3 Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie 3 Haliaeetus (Pontoaetus) leucogaster white-bellied sea-eagle 3 Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail 3 Hirundo (Hirundo) neoxena Welcome Swallow 3 Larus (Larus) dominicanus Dominican Gull 3 Larus (Larus) pacificus Pacific gull 3 Lewinia pectoralis Lewin's Rail 3 Macropygia (Macropygia) phasianella Brown Cuckoo-dove 3 Malurus (Leggeornis) lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren 3 Malurus (Malurus) cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren 3 Manorina (Myzantha) melanocephala Noisy Miner 3 Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird 3 Megalurus timoriensis Tawny Grassbird 3 Meliphaga (Meliphaga) lewinii Lewin's Honeyeater 3 Melithreptus (Melithreptus) lunatus White-naped Honeyeater 3 Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant 3 Mirafra (Mirafra) javanica Horsfield's Bushlark 3 Morus serrator Australasian gannet 3 Neochmia (Aegintha) temporalis Red-browed Finch 3 Numenius (Numenius) madagascariensis Eastern curlew 3 Nycticorax caledonicus Nankeen night heron 3 Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon 3 Origma solitaria Rockwarbler 3 Oriolus (Mimeta) sagittatus Olive-backed Oriole 3 Pachycephala (Alisterornis) rufiventris Rufous Whistler 3 Pachycephala (Pachycephala) pectoralis Golden Whistler 3 Pardalotus (Pardalotus) punctatus Spotted Pardalote 3 Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian pelican 3 Petrochelidon (Hylochelidon) nigricans Tree Martin 3 Petrochelidon (Petrochelidon) ariel Fairy Martin 3 Petroica (Erythrodryas) rosea Rose Robin 3 Pezoporus wallicus Eastern Ground Parrot 3 Phalacrocorax (Phalacrocorax) carbo Great Cormorant 3 Phalacrocorax (Phalacrocorax) sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant 3 Phalacrocorax (Phalacrocorax) varius Pied Cormorant 3 Philemon (Tropidorhynchus) corniculatus Noisy Friarbird 3 Phylidonyris (Meliornis) niger White-cheeked Honeyeater 3

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Scientific name Common name Source Phylidonyris (Meliornis) novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater 3 Platycercus (Platycercus) elegans Crimson Rosella 3 Platycercus (Violania) eximius Eastern Rosella 3 Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth 3 Porphyrio (Porphyrio) porphyrio Purple Swamphen 3 Porzana (Porzana) pusilla Baillon's Crake 3 Porzana (Porzana) tabuensis Spotless Crake 3 Psophodes (Psophodes) olivaceus Eastern Whipbird 3 Ptilonorhynchus violaceus Satin Bowerbird 3 Ptilotula fusca Fuscous Honeyeater 3 Puffinus (Puffinus) gavia fluttering shearwater 3 Rhipidura (Howeavis) rufifrons Rufous Fantail 3 Rhipidura (Rhipidura) albiscapa Grey Fantail 3 Rhipidura (Sauloprocta) leucophrys Willie Wagtail 3 Scythrops novaehollandiae Channel-billed Cuckoo 3 Sericornis (Sericornis) frontalis White-browed Scrubwren 3 Sphecotheres vieilloti Australasian Figbird 3 Stagonopleura (Zonaeginthus) bella Beautiful Firetail 3 Stercorarius parasiticus Arctic Skua 3 Stipiturus malachurus Southern Emu-wren 3 Strepera (Strepera) graculina Pied Currawong 3 Streptopelia (Spilopelia) chinensis Spotted Turtle-dove 3 Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Australasian Little Grebe 3 Thalasseus bergii Crested Tern 3 Threskiornis moluccus Australian White Ibis 3 Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet 3 Vanellus (Lobipluvia) miles Masked Lapwing 3 Vanellus (Lobipluvia) miles novaehollandiae Spur-winged plover 3 Zosterops lateralis Silvereye 3 Mammals Antechinus stuartii Brown Antechinus 2,3 Austronomus australis White-striped Freetail-bat 3 Canis familiaris Dingo 3 Cercartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy-possum 1 Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat 3 Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat 3 Miniopterus orianae oceanensis (Miniopterus Eastern Bent-wing Bat schreibersii oceanensis) 1,3 Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat 3 Perameles nasuta Long-nosed Bandicoot 1,3 Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum 3 Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox 1,3 Pseudomys novaehollandiae New Holland mouse 2 Pseudomys gracilicaudatus, Eastern Chestnut Mouse 2

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Scientific name Common name Source Rattus. fuscipes Bush Rat 2,3 Rattus lutreolus Swamp Rat 2,3 Tachyglossus aculeatus Short-beaked Echidna 3

Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail Possum 3 Vespadelus vulturnus Little Forest Bat 3 Wallabia bicolor Swamp Wallaby 2,3 Reptiles Amalosia lesueurii Lesueur's Velvet Gecko 3 Amphibolurus muricatus Jacky Lizard 3 Anilios nigrescens Blackish Blind Snake 3 Cacophis squamulosus Golden-crowned Snake 3 Chelodina (Chelodina) longicollis Eastern snake-necked turtle 3 Cryptoblepharus pulcher pulcher Elegant Snake-eyed Skink 3 Ctenotus taeniolatus Copper-tailed Skink 3 Demansia psammophis Yellow-faced Whip Snake 3 Dendrelaphis punctulatus Common Tree Snake 3 Eulamprus quoyii Eastern Water-skink 3 Intellagama lesueurii Water Dragon 3 Lampropholis delicata Dark-flecked Garden Sunskink 3 Lampropholis guichenoti Pale-flecked Garden Sunskink 3 Lialis burtonis Burton's Snake-lizard 3 Liopholis whitii White's Skink 3 Morelia spilota spilota Diamond Python 3 Paracrinia haswelli Haswell's Frog 3 Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake 3 Pseudonaja textilis Eastern Brown Snake 3 Pygopus lepidopodus Common Scaly-foot 3 Tiliqua scincoides Eastern Blue-tongue 3 Varanus rosenbergi Heath Monitor 3 Varanus varius Lace Monitor 3 Amphibians Crinia signifera Common Froglet 3 Heleioporus australiacus Giant Burrowing Frog 1 Limnodynastes dumerilii Eastern Banjo Frog 3 Limnodynastes peronii Brown-striped Frog 3 Litoria freycineti Freycinet's Frog 3 Litoria jervisiensis Jervis Bay Tree Frog 3 Litoria littlejohni Littlejohn’s Tree Frog 1 Litoria peronii Peron's Tree Frog 3 Pseudophryne australis Red-crowned Toadlet 1 Invertebrates Belenois java Caper White Moth 3 Coryphistes ruricola Bark-mimicking Grasshopper 3

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Scientific name Common name Source Danaus plexippus Monarch 3 Epicoma melanospila Black Spot Moth 3 Eriophora pustulosa Garden Orb Weave Spider 3 Myrmecia gulosa 3 Orthetrum caledonicum Blue Skimmer Dragonfly 3 Poecilopachys australasia Two-spined Spider 3 Polyrhachis (Hagiomyrma) ammon Golden-tailed Spiny Ant 3 Pristhesancus plagipennis Assassin bug 3 Vanessa kershawi Australian Painted Lady 3 Villa fumea 3

Table 7 Non-native fauna that may be found in or near the ecological community Source: Atlas of Living Australia Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) https://www.ala.org.au Area searches using the ‘search my area’ tool, manual comparison with locations of the ecological community in State Government of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (2021).

Scientific name Common name Acridotheres tristis Common myna Cervus timorensis Rusa Deer Columba (Columba) livia Rock Dove Equus (Equus) caballus Horse Felis catus Cat Mus musculus House Mouse Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit Passer (Passer) domesticus House sparrow Pycnonotus (Pycnonotus) Red-whiskered Bulbul jocosus Rattus rattus Black Rat Sturnus (Sturnus) vulgaris Starling Turdus merula Blackbird Vulpes vulpes Fox

APPENDIX B - RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER VEGETATION CLASSIFICATION AND MAPPING SYSTEMS Ecological communities are complex to classify. States apply their own systems to classify vegetation communities. Reference to vegetation and mapping units as equivalent or related to the ecological community, at the time of listing, should be taken as indicative rather than definitive. A unit that is generally equivalent may include elements that do not meet the key diagnostics and minimum condition thresholds. Conversely, areas mapped or described as other units may sometimes meet the key diagnostics for the ecological community. Judgement of whether the ecological community is present at a particular site should focus on how the site meets the description the key diagnostic characteristics Mapping units described below may not be equivalent with the ecological community being listed. However, for many sites (but not all) certain vegetation map units will correspond

57 Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region Conservation Advice Consultation Draft sufficiently to provide indicative mapping for the national ecological community, where the description matches. On-ground assessment is vital to determine if any patch is part of the ecological community. B1 Relationship to New South Wales vegetation classifications The ecological community is broadly equivalent with the ‘Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub’ described in the ‘Final determination’ by the NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee and listed by the Government of NSW as critically endangered in 2017. It one of a range of vegetation types described by the statewide class of Wallum Sand Heaths (Keith 2004). As the mapping and approaches to classification of vegetation types have developed in NSW, various vegetation units have been used to indicate the likely presence of the ecological community. This draft Conservation Advice refers to the Plant Community Types defined for NSW and likely to be published in 2021. For this ecological community these are: : • PCT 3806 ‘Sydney Coastal Sand Mantle Heath’: a very tall heath type found on headlands in the Sydney region • PCT 3805 ‘Southern Sandplain Heath’ (in part where found within the geographical boundaries in the description of the ecological community) ie. between the Hawkesbury River and the southern edge of Royal National Park: a more widely distributed tall heath found on deep aeolian sand dunes at headlands to the north and south of Sydney. • Plant community types 3809 and 3812 (Sydney Coastal Sandstone Heath) are closely related. The latter is a tall heath community found on sandstone cliffs, generally dominated by Banksia ericifolia and Allocasuarina distyla (Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in prep. a,b), Other vegetation classifications and mapping that have previously been used to help describe and locate the ecological community include • State Government of NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (2021) Threatened Ecological Communities Greater Sydney map. • Department of Planning, Industry and Environment Bionet Plant Community Types: PCT 664 Banksia heath on Aeolian Sands of Eastern Sydney Suburbs, Biometric Number(s): ME022;

o PCT 1061 (Old-man Banksia-She-oak-Red Bloodwood Heathland on Coastal Sands, Southern Sydney Basin) (part), and closely related to 1822 Biometric Number(s): ME011; SR589 • Benson and Howell (1994 )unit 21b(i) (cited in NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017) • Tozer et al (2010) HL p563 (cited in NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2017) • (OEH 2016 a,b,c).Coastal Sand Mantle Heath’ (S_HL03), considered to be transitional between other assemblages of woodland and heathland found on larger dunes, and heaths found on sandstone substrates. The floristic composition is more similar with the latter.

o ‘Coastal Sandplain Heath’ (S_HL04). Coastal Sand Mantle Heath (in part): a more broadly distributed coastal heath assemblage found on deep aeolian sand dunes.

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