Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
The department is responsible for implementing the Australian Government's policies to protect our environment and heritage, and to promote a sustainable way of life. More about the department
Federal environmental approval for Inpex's Ichthys project
The Federal environment minister has approved, with strict environmental conditions, Inpex's Ichthys Browse Basin project, including a gas field, pipeline and processing facility.
Koongarra, NT added to Kakadu National Park World Heritage area
In recognition of its outstanding natural and cultural values, the Koongarra area was added to the Kakadu World Heritage Area by the World Heritage Committee on 27 June 2011.
Ningaloo Coast, WA receives World Heritage listing
On 24 June 2011, the World Heritage Committee inscribed the Ningaloo Coast on UNESCO's World Heritage List, acknowledging it as one of the outstanding natural places in the world.
Proposed 'no' decision for Hummock Hill Island development
The Federal environment minister has sought public comments on a proposed decision to reject a development on Hummock Hill Island, after deciding the impacts on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and nationally protected species and ecological communities would be too great.
Webcam of Commonwealth environmental watering in the Murrumbidgee River
More than 150 gigalitres of water recovered for the environment is being used to provide river flows along the Murrumbidgee River, and will benefit the Murray system as far downstream as South Australia's Lower Lakes and Coorong.
West Kimberley assessment decision extended
The Heritage Minister has extended the deadline for a decision about National Heritage listing of the west Kimberley to the end of August to allow further community consultation.
West Kimberley National Heritage assessment
New information is available as part of the consultation process to help land users and others understand what National Heritage listing of the west Kimberley would mean for them. Comments close 27 June 2011.
Draft South-west marine reserves released for community consultation
A draft marine bioregional plan and a Commonwealth marine reserve network proposal for the South-west Marine Region have been released for public consultation. Comments close Monday 8 August 2011.
More news on our what's new page.
June 2011
- Mabo Day - 3rd
- World Environment Day - 5th
- World Ocean Day - 8th
- Global Wind Day - 15th
- World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought - 17th
- International Ride to Work Day - 20th
- Red Nose Day - 24th
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Arts and culture
As part of the Machinery of Government changes announced on 14 September 2010 responsibility for Cultural affairs, including movable cultural heritage and support for the arts has been transferred to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
