Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR)

 

A Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) is a detailed ecological assessment prepared under the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM) in accordance with the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. A BDAR is required when a development proposal exceeds certain biodiversity impact thresholds or when the development is likely to significantly affect threatened species or ecological communities. Ecological Solutions provides expert BDAR preparation by accredited BAM assessors across NSW.

 

When Is a BDAR Required? The Three Key Thresholds

 

A BDAR is triggered when a proposed development exceeds any one of three thresholds established under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017:

 

1. Area Clearing Threshold

The area clearing threshold is based on the minimum lot size under the applicable Local Environmental Plan (LEP). If a proposal exceeds the following native vegetation clearing limits, a BDAR is required:

 

• Minimum lot size less than 1 ha: clearing exceeds 0.25 ha

• Minimum lot size 1 ha to less than 40 ha: clearing exceeds 0.5 ha

• Minimum lot size 40 ha to less than 1,000 ha: clearing exceeds 1 ha

• Minimum lot size 1,000 ha or greater: clearing exceeds 2 ha

 

2. Biodiversity Values (BV) Mapping

A BDAR is required if the development is proposed on land identified on the Biodiversity Values Map (BV Map). This map identifies areas of high biodiversity value across NSW, including important habitat corridors, areas of outstanding biodiversity value, and land with significant ecological features. Any clearing of native vegetation on BV-mapped land, regardless of the area to be cleared, triggers the requirement for a BDAR.

 

3. Significant Impact on Threatened Species

Even if the area clearing threshold is not exceeded and the land is not on the BV Map, a BDAR may still be required if the development is likely to have a significant impact on threatened species, populations, or ecological communities. This is assessed using the five-part test of significance under Section 7.3 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. If the test determines a significant impact is likely, the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme is triggered and a BDAR must be prepared.

 

What Does a BDAR Include?

 

A BDAR is prepared by an accredited BAM assessor and includes comprehensive field surveys, vegetation mapping using Plant Community Types (PCTs), habitat assessment for threatened species, and calculation of biodiversity credits required to offset the impacts of the proposed development. The report follows the standardised Biodiversity Assessment Method and feeds directly into the NSW Biodiversity Offsets Scheme, ensuring your project meets all regulatory requirements. Related services include our Flora & Fauna Assessment (FFA) for projects below the BDAR threshold, and Ecological Constraints Assessments for early-stage feasibility.

 

Why Choose Ecological Solutions for Your BDAR?

 

Ecological Solutions employs accredited BAM assessors with extensive experience preparing BDARs across NSW. We understand the complexities of the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme and work to minimise your offset liability through careful project design and avoidance strategies. Our team provides clear, practical advice and delivers BDARs that satisfy both council and state government requirements. We service the Greater Sydney region, Hunter & Central Coast, Illawarra & South Coast, and regional NSW.

 

Contact Ecological Solutions today for a free initial consultation about your BDAR requirements.