What is a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR)?

A BDAR is a formal assessment under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 that evaluates the potential impacts of a proposed development on native vegetation, threatened species, and their habitats. It must be prepared by a BAM-accredited assessor and is required when development triggers the Biodiversity Offset Scheme thresholds.

When do I need a flora and fauna assessment in NSW?

A flora and fauna assessment is typically required by your local council as part of a Development Application (DA) when your proposed development may impact native vegetation, threatened species, or ecological communities. This requirement comes from the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

What triggers the NSW Biodiversity Offset Scheme?

The Biodiversity Offset Scheme is triggered when a development exceeds area clearing thresholds based on the minimum lot size of the property, or when the land is identified on the Biodiversity Values Map. The area thresholds range from 0.25 hectares for smaller lots to 1 hectare for lots over 40 hectares.

How much does an ecologist cost in Sydney and NSW?

Ecological consulting fees in NSW vary depending on the type and complexity of assessment. A basic flora and fauna assessment for a small residential DA may start from around $3,000-$5,000, while a full BDAR for a larger development can range from $8,000 to $30,000 or more. Contact Ecological Solutions on 0434 848 732 for a free quote.

What is the difference between a BDAR and a Flora and Fauna Assessment?

A Flora and Fauna Assessment (FFA) is a broader ecological assessment under the EP&A Act using the Five-Part Test of Significance. A BDAR is a more rigorous, standardised assessment under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 using the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM), required when the Biodiversity Offset Scheme is triggered.

How long does an ecological assessment take?

A standard flora and fauna assessment typically takes 3-6 weeks. BDARs generally take 6-12 weeks due to more intensive survey requirements. Targeted threatened species surveys may require seasonal timing and can take several months. Contact us early in your project planning.

What is PCT vegetation mapping?

PCT (Plant Community Type) mapping identifies and classifies native vegetation on a site using the NSW BioNet Vegetation Classification system. Each PCT is defined by its characteristic plant species composition, structure, and landscape position. PCT identification is essential for BDAR assessments.

Do I need an ecologist for my development application?

You likely need an ecologist if your development site contains native vegetation, is near bushland or waterways, is on or near land mapped as having biodiversity values, or if your local council requires an ecological assessment. Most councils in Sydney, Hunter, Illawarra, and Central Coast regions require ecological input.

Review of Environmental Factors (REF) Services in NSW

Guy Smith
Apr 3
2 min read

A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) is a comprehensive environmental assessment required under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) for activities carried out by or on behalf of public authorities in NSW. Unlike development applications assessed under Part 4, REF activities do not require development consent but must still be thoroughly assessed for their environmental impacts before proceeding. At Ecological Solutions, we prepare REFs that are thorough, defensible, and designed to support informed decision-making by determining authorities.

When Is a REF Required?

A REF is required when a public authority, such as a local council, state government agency, or utility provider, proposes to carry out an activity that does not require development consent under Part 4 of the EP&A Act. Common examples include road construction and upgrades, bridge works and maintenance, utility installations including water, sewer, and electricity infrastructure, park and recreation facility development, stormwater management works, bushfire hazard reduction, and public building construction or modification.

What Does a REF Assess?

A REF is broader in scope than a standalone ecological assessment. It examines all potential environmental impacts of the proposed activity, not just biodiversity. Our REFs typically address biodiversity impacts including flora, fauna, and ecological communities, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage, water quality and hydrology, noise and vibration, air quality, traffic and access, visual amenity, soil and contamination, waste management, and cumulative impacts. The ecological component of the REF includes the Five-Part Test of Significance under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, assessment against the Fisheries Management Act 1994 where relevant, and consideration of whether the activity triggers the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme.

Our REF Process

We work closely with the proponent authority from the outset to understand the scope of the proposed activity, the relevant legislative requirements, and any specific issues that need to be addressed. Our process includes a detailed site assessment covering all relevant environmental factors, specialist ecological surveys where required, consultation with relevant stakeholders and agencies, preparation of a comprehensive REF document that meets the requirements of the EP&A Act and relevant guidelines, and clear recommendations for impact avoidance, mitigation, and management.

Supporting Government Agencies and Councils

We understand the specific requirements and expectations of government agencies and local councils in NSW. Our REFs are prepared to meet the standards expected by determining authorities and are structured to facilitate clear, defensible decision-making. We have extensive experience working with councils, Transport for NSW, and other state agencies to deliver REFs that are technically sound and practically useful.

Service Areas

We prepare REFs for projects across all of NSW, with deep experience in Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Illawarra, South Coast, and regional areas. Contact Ecological Solutions today to discuss your REF requirements.

info@ecologicalsolutions.com.au