Draft NT Offsets Policy

The Northern Territory Government has released a draft Northern Territory Offsets Policy for public comment.

The Policy provides a guide for the development of both mandated and voluntary offsets arrangements and will initially be used to guide biodiversity offsets where projects are determined to have a significant residual impact through the environmental impact assessment process. It will ensure consistency and give certainty to the community and businesses looking to invest in the Territory.

Other Australian jurisdictions and the Australian Government already have an environmental offset policy, the Policy will align the Territory with best practice environmental management. The Draft NT Offsets Policy also meets the recommendation of the Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing.

The Northern Territory is proposing to implement a target‑based offsets model that fits our unique circumstances. Development of this model will be tailored through public consultation and expert advice from academics and practitioners however activities under the model could include the reduction of landscape-scale threats such as fire, weeds and feral animals. Regional-based targets and indicators, and appropriate governance and operational systems will be developed to support implementation of the Policy.

Offsets in the Northern Territory could provide new opportunities for Aboriginal Territorians through jobs on country whilst ensuring ongoing economic investment.

Contributions to this consultation are now closed for evaluation and review.