National Reserve System news
The National Reserve System is Australia's network of protected areas, conserving examples of our natural landscapes and native plants and animals for future generations. Based on a scientific framework, it is the nation's natural safety net against our biggest environmental challenges.
Australia a global leader in biodiversity knowledge
29 September 2009
Environment Minister Peter Garrett today released the only report in the world to document the planet's known animal and plant species - all 1,899,587 of them.
"This work by Australian scientists, which has been praised by internationally acclaimed naturalist Sir David Attenborough, is a fantastic contribution to the global fight to conserve biodiversity," Mr Garrett said.
More information >>
A renewed outlook for the Great Barrier Reef
2 September 2009
A new report released today illustrates the need for strong, decisive action to save one of the world's most important natural wonders — the Great Barrier Reef — from the impacts of climate change.
More information >>
Agreement protects Sunshine Coast wildlife corridor
28 August 2009
Another parcel of ecologically significant land on the Sunshine Coast will be preserved for future generations under an agreement between the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and the Australian Government.
More information >>
New conservation reserve
13 June 2009
The New South Wales and Australian governments have joined forces to create a new conservation reserve in Sydney's west. Adding the former 181-hectare Air Services Australia site at Cranebrook to the National Reserve System will protect some of Sydney's most endangered species, provide a critical wildlife corridor and secure additional green space for residents.
Strategy for Australia's National Reserve System 2009–2030
2 June 2009
The next 20 years will be a critical period for biodiversity conservation in Australia. Today's release of the National Reserve System Strategy 2009-2030 is an important step towards long-term protection of Australia's incredible biodiversity.
Download the Strategy for Australia's National Reserve System 2009-2030
Grassroots support protects Tassie habitat
28 January 2009
An island refuge in Tasmania's Huon River will now be added to Australia's National Reserve System - our nation's most secure way of protecting native habitat. Environment Minister Peter Garrett and Member for Franklin Julie Collins today launched the Tasmanian Land Conservancy's Egg Islands Reserve in Franklin, 45 kilometres south west of Hobart.
Grassroots support protects Tassie habitat - press release (89KB PDF)
Funding 2009-10
January 2009
The Australian Government is now calling for investment proposals for projects that will meet the targets outlined in the Caring for our Country business plan 2009-10. The closing date for submission of proposals is 6 March 2009.
Find out more about funding and how to apply
2008
Sunshine Coast hosts international protected areas congress
Source: ABC News | 2 December 2008
ABC's Kathy McLeish reports about a landmark Congress on Protected Areas held on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast hosts international protected areas congress | ABC video
$180 Million to build the National Reserve System
31 March 2008
Visiting the Namadgi National Park near Canberra, Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett today announced a $180 million boost to Australia's National Reserve System, as part of the Government's $2.25 billion Caring for our Country initiative.
$180 Million to build the National Reserve System | press release
Implications of Climate Change for Australia's National Reserve System
March 2008
A report by the CSIRO has confirmed the National Reserve System as a vital tool for conserving Australia's biodiversity in the face of climate change. Acting on a need identified by the CSIRO report, the Government has announced $250,000 for a new study into climate change refuges for native species.
Implications of Climate Change for Australia's National Reserve System | report
Building the National Reserve System factsheet
Australia's network of parks, reserves and protected
areas - is a vital part of our national effort to conserve biodiversity.
Building the National Reserve System | factsheet