Flora and Fauna Reports/Ecological Assessment Reports

Flora and Fauna Reports (FAF), commonly referred to as Ecological Assessment Reports (EAR), are often required to support development applications where there is potential for impacts on native vegetation, habitat features, or threatened species. These reports play a vital role in identifying ecological values and ensuring projects meet environmental planning and legislative requirements.

What is a Flora & Fauna Report?

A Flora and Fauna Report is a technical assessment that evaluates the potential ecological impacts of a proposed development. It typically involves a combination of desktop analysis, literature review, field surveys, and habitat assessments. The report identifies the presence or likelihood of threatened species and ecological communities and provides recommendations to avoid, minimise, or mitigate potential impacts of the proposed development. 

Assessments are guided by relevant Commonwealth, state, and local policies and prepared in accordance with best-practice ecological standards.

When is a Flora & Fauna Report  Required?

Flora and Fauna Reports are generally required as part of development proposals assessed under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act), where native vegetation clearing, habitat disturbance, or potential impacts to biodiversity are likely to occur.

An exception applies where a proposal triggers entry into the Biodiversity Offset Scheme (BOS), in which case a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) is required for the proposed development.

Follow the link to learn more about the BOS and BDARs.