Biodiversity Assessment, 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria · 2019-12-03 · 4 Biodiversity...

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Final Report

Biodiversity Assessment, 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave,

Victoria

Prepared for

Fastnet Consulting

April 2017

Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd

2 Biodiversity Assessment, 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria

DOCUMENT CONTROL

Assessment Biodiversity Assessment

Address 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria

Project number 7865

Project manager Lyndsey Vivian (Consultant Botanist)

Report reviewer Sandra Mijatovic (Consultant Botanist), Andrew Hill (Director)

Other EHP staff Tom Schmidt (Technical Officer – Zoology), Jared McGuiness (Technical Officer – Botany)

Mapping Monique Elsley (GIS Co-ordinator)

File name 7865_EHP_62JacksonsRdMulgrave_BA_FINAL_07042017

Client Fastnet Consulting

Bioregion Gippsland Plain

CMA Port Philip and Westernport

Council Monash City Council

Report versions Comments Comments updated by Date submitted

Draft 1 - 07/04/2016

Final - JM 12/04/2017

Acknowledgements We thank the following people for their contribution to the project:

Phil Edwards (Fastnet Consulting) for providing project information; and,

The Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning for access to ecological databases.

Copyright © Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd

This document is subject to copyright and may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned. The use or copying of this document in whole or part without the permission of Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd is an infringement of copyright.

Disclaimer

Although Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd have taken all the necessary steps to ensure that an accurate document has been prepared, the company accepts no liability for any damages or loss incurred as a result of reliance placed upon the report and its contents.


SUMMARY

Introduction

Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd was commissioned by Fastnet Consulting to conduct a Biodiversity

Assessment at 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria. This assessment was undertaken to identify and

characterise the vegetation on-site, determine the presence (or likelihood thereof) of any significant flora

and fauna species and/or ecological communities and address any implications under Commonwealth and

State environmental legislation.

Methods

A field assessment was undertaken on 21 March 2016 to obtain information on terrestrial flora and fauna

values within the study area. A habitat hectare assessment was undertaken in conjunction with the flora

survey. Vegetation within the study area was assessed according to the habitat hectare methodology, which

is described in the Vegetation Quality Assessment Manual.

Results

Flora

Thirty-nine flora species (six indigenous and 33 non-indigenous) were recorded within the study area during

the field assessment. Based on habitat present within the study area, landscape context and the proximity

of previous records, significant flora species are considered unlikely to occur within the study area.

Fauna

Based on habitat present within the study area, landscape context and the proximity of previous records,

significant fauna species are considered unlikely to occur within the study area.

Communities

Vegetation within the study area did not meet the condition thresholds that define any significant ecological

communities.

Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines)

The study area is within Location A, with 1.532 hectares of native vegetation proposed to be removed. As

such, the permit application falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathway.

The offset requirement for native vegetation removal is 0.050 General Biodiversity Equivalence Units (BEU).

Legislative and Policy Implications

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act - Federal)

The proposed action is unlikely to have a significant impact on any matter of NES. As such, a referral to the

Commonwealth Environment Minister is unlikely to be required regarding matters listed under the EPBC Act.

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act - Victoria)

There is unlikely to be suitable habitat within the study area for species listed or protected under the FFG

Act. Furthermore, as the study area is privately owned, a permit under the FFG Act is not required.


Planning and Environment Act 1987

A Planning Permit from Monash City Council is required to remove, destroy or lop any native vegetation. In

this instance, the application will be referred to DELWP as greater than 0.5 hectares of vegetation are

proposed for removal.

Other Legislation and Policy

Implications relating to other local and State policy (Wildlife Act 1975, Catchment and Land Protection Act

1994, local government authorities) as well as additional studies or reporting that may be required (targeted

surveys, Conservation Management Plan, Weed Management Plan, Construction Environment

Managements Plan) are provided in Section 7.


Table S1. Application requirements for a permit to remove native vegetation (Victoria Planning Provisions Clause

52.17 -3; DEPI 2013)

No. Application Requirement Response

Application requirements for all applications:

1 The location of the site of native vegetation to be removed. 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria. Monash City Council, Port Philip and Westernport CMA.

2 A description of the native vegetation to be removed, including the area of the patch of native vegetation and/or the number of any scattered trees to be removed.

Total extent to be removed is 1.532 hectares (1.461 hectares remnant patch, and 1 scattered tree). Details provided in Section 3.

3 Maps or plans containing information set out in the Guidelines, (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, September 2013)

Refer to Figures and BIOR report (Appendix 4.1).

4 Recent dated photographs of the native vegetation to be removed. Refer to Section 3.

- Topographic information, highlighting ridges, crests and hilltops, streams and waterways, slopes of more than 20 percent, drainage lines, low lying areas, saline discharge areas, and areas of existing erosion.

Refer to Section 1.3.

5 The risk-based pathway of the application to remove native vegetation. Moderate

6 Where the purpose of removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation is to create defendable space, a statement is required that explains why removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation is necessary.

Not applicable.

7 A copy of any property vegetation plan that applies to the site. Not applicable.

8

Details of any other native vegetation that was permitted to be removed on the same property with the same ownership as the native vegetation to be removed, where the removal occurred in the five year period before the application to remove native vegetation is lodged.

No other native vegetation was permitted to be removed.

9 The strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed. 0.111

10 The offset requirements should a permit be granted to remove native vegetation.

General: 0.050 BEUs

Specific: None

Additional application requirements for Moderate and High risk-based pathway applications:

11 A habitat hectare assessment of the native vegetation to be removed. Refer to Section 3 and BIOR report (Appendix 4.1).

12 A statement outlining what steps have been taken to minimise the impacts of the removal of native vegetation on biodiversity.

A minimisation statement is supplied at Section 6.1.2.

13 An assessment of whether the proposed removal of native vegetation will have a significant impact on Victoria’s biodiversity, with specific regard to the proportional impact on habitat for any rare or threatened species.

The proposed removal of native vegetation is unlikely to have a significant impact on Victoria’s biodiversity (Section 6.1.1).

14 An offset strategy that details how a compliant offset will be secured to offset the biodiversity impacts of the removal of native vegetation.

It is anticipated that relevant offset obligations can be secured via an OTC facility (Section 6.3.1.3).


CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

1.1 Background ........................................................................................................................................ 8

1.2 Scope and Objectives ......................................................................................................................... 8

1.3 Study Area .......................................................................................................................................... 9

2 METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.1 Desktop Assessment ........................................................................................................................ 10

2.2 Site Assessment ............................................................................................................................... 10

2.3 Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines) ............................................................................. 11

2.4 Assessment Qualifications and Limitations ...................................................................................... 12

3 RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3.1 Vegetation Condition ....................................................................................................................... 14

3.2 Fauna Habitat ................................................................................................................................... 17

3.3 Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines) ............................................................................. 17

3.4 Significance Assessment .................................................................................................................. 18

4 LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

4.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) ...................... 20

4.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Victoria) ............................................................................... 20

4.3 Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Victoria) ................................................................................ 21

4.4 Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2013 (Victoria) ............................................................. 22

4.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (Victoria) ........................................................................ 22

5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

6 MITIGATION MEASURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

6.1 Minimise Impacts ............................................................................................................................. 24

6.2 Best Practice Mitigation Measures .................................................................................................. 25

6.3 Offset Impacts .................................................................................................................................. 27

7 FURTHER REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

APPENDIX 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33


Appendix 1.1 – Rare or Threatened Categories for Listed Victorian Taxa .................................................... 33

Appendix 1.2 – Defining Ecological Significance .......................................................................................... 34

Appendix 1.3 – Defining Site Significance .................................................................................................... 35

Appendix 1.4 – Vegetation Condition and Habitat Quality .......................................................................... 36

Appendix 1.5 – Offsets and Exemptions ...................................................................................................... 37

APPENDIX 2 - FLORA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Appendix 2.1 – Flora Results ........................................................................................................................ 38

Appendix 2.2 – Significant Flora Species ...................................................................................................... 40

Appendix 2.3 – Habitat Hectares ................................................................................................................. 43

Appendix 2.4 – Scattered Trees ................................................................................................................... 44

APPENDIX 3 - FAUNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Appendix 3.1– Significant Fauna Species ..................................................................................................... 45

APPENDIX 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Appendix 4.1 – Biodiversity Impact and Offset Report (BIOR), DELWP ........................................................ 50


1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd was commissioned by Fastnet Consulting to conduct a Biodiversity

Assessment at 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria. It is understood that Fastnet Consulting has been

engaged by Villa Maria Catholic Homes to prepare a Biodiversity Assessment to advise on the redevelopment

of the study area for a major ‘Age in Place’ estate. The development proposal relates to the establishment

of an Age in Place Retirement Village (approximately 250 units), a 108 bed Residential Aged Care Facility and

ancillary Retirement Community Facilities and Medical Centre. The site has previously operated as a

seminary and there are several existing buildings on the site.

The purpose of the assessment was to identify the extent and type of remnant native vegetation present

within the study area and to determine the presence of significant flora and fauna species and/or ecological

communities. A previous vegetation and tree assessment identified that areas of native grass occur within

the study area (Galbraith and Associates 2017), however individual, clearly marked patches of remnant

native vegetation as defined by the ‘Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment

guidelines’ (the Guidelines) (DEPI 2013) were not mapped at the time. This report presents the results of the

assessment and discusses the potential ecological and legislative implications associated with the proposed

action. The report also provides recommendations to address or reduce impacts and, where necessary,

highlights components that require further investigation, such as targeted surveys.

1.2 Scope and Objectives

The objectives of the flora and fauna assessment were to:

Review the relevant flora and fauna databases and available literature;

Conduct a site assessment to identify flora and fauna values within the study area;

Provide maps showing any areas of remnant native vegetation and locations of any significant flora

and fauna species, and/or fauna habitat (if present);

Classify any flora and fauna species and vegetation communities identified or considered likely to

occur within the study area in accordance with Commonwealth and State legislation;

Document relevant environmental legislation and policy;

Document any opportunities and constraints associated with the proposed works; and,

Advise whether any additional flora and/or fauna surveys are required prior to works commencing

(e.g. targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna species).

Where areas of remnant vegetation were present, the following tasks were completed to address

requirements under the ‘Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines’ (the

Guidelines) (DEPI 2013):

A habitat hectare assessment of any areas of remnant native vegetation within the study area;


Recommendations to address requirements under the Guidelines to minimise impacts to remnant

vegetation; and,

Provision of offset targets for any native vegetation, scattered trees and habitat for rare or

threatened species proposed to be lost as a result of the proposed works.

1.3 Study Area

The study area is located at 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave, Victoria, approximately 24 kilometres south east of

Melbourne’s CBD (Figure 1). The site covers approximately 4.7 hectares and is bound by residential areas to

the north, south and east and Jacksons Road to the west.

The study area is generally flat, with no ridges, crests or waterways within or immediately adjacent to the

site, although there is a gentle downhill slope to the north east corner of the study area. Dandenong Creek is

located approximately one kilometre to the east of the study area.

According to the DELWP Native Vegetation Information Management Tool (DELWP 2016a), the study area

occurs within the Gippsland Plain bioregion. It is located within the jurisdiction of the Port Philip and

Westernport Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and the Monash City Council municipality. Section

4.3.1 discusses zoning and overlays relevant to the study area.


2 METHODS

2.1 Desktop Assessment

Relevant literature, online-resources and databases were reviewed to provide an assessment of flora and

fauna values associated with the study area. The following information sources were reviewed:

The Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Native Vegetation

Information Management (NVIM) Tool (DELWP 2016a) and the Biodiversity Interactive Map (DELWP

2016c) for:

o Modelled data for location risk, remnant vegetation patches, scattered trees and habitat for

rare or threatened species; and,

o The extent of historic and current EVCs.

The VBA (DELWP 2016b) for previously documented flora and fauna records within the project

locality;

The Flora Information System (FIS) (Viridans 2014a) and Atlas of Victorian Wildlife (AVW) (Viridans

2014b) for the general distribution and identification of flora and fauna species;

The Federal Department of Environment (DoE) Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) for matters of

National Environmental Significance (NES) protected under the Environment Protection and

Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) (DoE 2016);

The Planning Maps Online (DELWP 2016e) and Planning Schemes Online (DELWP 2016f) to ascertain

current zoning and environmental overlays in the study area;

Aerial photography of the study area;

Relevant environmental legislation and policies; and,

The previous ecological assessment undertaken by Galbraith and Associates (2016) within the study

area.

2.2 Site Assessment

A site assessment was undertaken on 21 March 2016 to obtain information on flora and fauna values within

the study area. The study area was walked, with all observed flora and fauna species recorded, any

significant records mapped and the overall condition of vegetation and habitats noted. Ecological

Vegetation Classes (EVCs) were determined with reference to DELWP pre-1750 and extant EVC mapping and

their published descriptions (DELWP 2016b).

Where remnant vegetation was identified a habitat hectare assessment was undertaken following

methodology described in the Vegetation Quality Assessment Manual (DSE 2004).


2.3 Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines)

Under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, Clause 52.17 of the Planning Schemes requires a planning

permit from the relevant local Council to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation. The assessment process

for the clearing of vegetation follows the ‘Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment

guidelines’ (the Guidelines) (DEPI 2013).

2.3.1 Risk-based Pathway

The Guidelines manage the impacts on biodiversity from native vegetation removal using a risk-based

approach. Two factors – extent risk and location risk – are used to determine the risk associated with an

application for a permit to remove native vegetation. The location risk (A, B or C) has been determined for

all areas in Victoria and is available on DELWP’s Native Vegetation Information Management (NVIM) Tool

(DELWP 2016a). Determination of risk-based pathway is summarised in Table 1.

Table 1. Risk-based pathways for applications to remove native vegetation (DEPI 2013)

Extent Location

A B C

Native Vegetation

< 0.5 hectares Low Low High

≥ 0.5 hectares and < 1 hectare Low Moderate High

≥ 1 hectare Moderate High High

Scattered Trees < 15 scattered trees Low Moderate High

≥ 15 scattered trees Moderate High High

Notes: For the purpose of determining the risk-based pathway of an application to remove native vegetation the extent includes any other native vegetation that was permitted to be removed on the same contiguous parcel of land with the same ownership as the native vegetation to be removed, where the removal occurred in the five year period before an application to remove native vegetation is lodged.

2.3.2 Vegetation Assessment

Native vegetation (as defined in Table 2) is assessed using two key parameters: extent (in hectares) and

condition. Extent is determined through a site assessment. The condition score for Moderate and High Risk-

based pathways must be assessed through a habitat hectare1 assessment conducted by a qualified ecologist.

The condition score for Low Risk-based pathways may be based on either modelled data available on the

NVIM Tool (DELWP 2016a), or through a habitat hectare assessment.

1 A ‘habitat hectare’ is a unit of measurement which combines the condition and extent of native vegetation.


Table 2. Determination of remnant native vegetation (DEPI 2013)

Category Definition Extent Condition

Remnant patch of native vegetation

An area of vegetation where at least 25 per cent of the total perennial understorey plant cover is native.

OR

An area with three or more native canopy trees where the canopy foliage cover is at least 20 per cent of the area.

Measured in hectares.

Based on hectare area of the remnant patch.

Vegetation Quality Assessment Manual (DSE 2004).

Scattered tree A native canopy tree that does not form part of a remnant patch.

Measured in hectares.

Each scattered tree is assigned an extent of 0.071 hectares (30m diameter).

Scattered trees are assigned a default condition score of 0.2.

Notes: Native vegetation is defined in the Victoria Planning Provisions as ‘plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses’.

2.3.3 Impact Minimisation

Applications under the Moderate and High risk-based pathways must include a statement outlining steps

taken to minimise the impact of the removal of native vegetation on Victoria’s biodiversity, along with an

assessment of whether the proposed removal of native vegetation will have a significant impact on Victoria’s

biodiversity (DEPI 2013). The impact minimisation statement is provided in Section 6.1.2.

2.3.4 Offsets

Offsets are required to compensate for the permitted removal of native vegetation. Offsets are divided into

two categories: General and Specific. Offset obligations and offset site criteria are determined in accordance

with the Guidelines (DEPI 2013) and summarised in Appendix 1.5.1 and Appendix 1.5.2.

The offset requirements for native vegetation removal are calculated by DELWP, based on the vegetation

condition scores determined during the biodiversity assessment. The resulting Biodiversity Impact and

Offset Requirements report (BIOR) produced by DELWP is presented in Appendix 4.

2.4 Assessment Qualifications and Limitations

Data and information held within the ecological databases and mapping programs reviewed in the desktop

assessment (e.g. VBA, PMST, Biodiversity Interactive Maps etc.) are unlikely to represent all flora and fauna

observations within, and surrounding, the study area. It is therefore important to acknowledge that a lack of

documented records does not necessarily indicate that a species or community is absent.

Ecological values identified on site are recorded using a hand-held GPS or tablet with an accuracy of +/-5

metres. This level of accuracy is considered adequate to provide an accurate assessment of the ecological

values present within the study area; however this data should not be used for detailed surveying purposes.

The field assessment was undertaken during a sub-optimal season for the identification of some flora and

fauna species (late autumn), although this was a suitable time of the year for identifying native grasses as

many were in seed. The ‘snap shot’ nature of a standard biodiversity assessment, meant that migratory,

transitory or uncommon fauna species may have been absent from typically occupied habitats at the time of

the site assessment. In addition, annual or cryptic flora species such as those that persist via underground


tubers may also be absent. Targeted flora or fauna surveys were not undertaken, as this was beyond the

preliminary scope of the project. Nevertheless, the terrestrial flora and fauna data collected during the field

assessment and information obtained from relevant desktop sources is considered adequate to provide an

accurate assessment of the ecological values present within the study area.


3 RESULTS

3.1 Vegetation Condition

3.1.1 Historical EVCs

Pre-1750 modelled Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) mapping indicates that the study area would have

historically supported two EVCs: Grassy Woodland (EVC 175) in the southern half of the study area, and

Grassy Forest (EVC 128) in the northern half of the study area (DELWP 2016c).

3.1.2 Remnant Patches

Extant (2005) modelled mapping of EVCs suggests that intact remnant vegetation no longer occurs in the

study area, with the closest remnant vegetation (Grassy Woodland) occurring approximately 500 m to the

west.

However, the site visit indicated that highly modified native vegetation, in the form of understorey

vegetation occurs within the study area, although almost all trees present are planted (Section 3.1.4). These

remnant patches are dominated by the native grasses Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides and

Wallaby Grass Rytidosperma spp. It is difficult to determine whether these remnant patches are

representative of Grassy Woodland or Grassy Forest, as both EVCs historically occurred in the study area and

the immediate surrounds. However, given the widespread dominance of Weeping Grass, which is a typical

species in Grassy Woodland (DELWP 2016b), it is likely that these remnant patches are representative of

Grassy Woodland.

Specific details relating to the observed EVC are provided below.

Grassy Woodland

Remnant Grassy Woodland patches occur throughout the study area, particularly in the west and south

(Figure 2). Most remnant patches contain planted native trees, particularly Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata

and Lemon-scented Gum Corymbia citriodora subsp. citriodora. Each patch contains at least 25 per cent

cover of Weeping Grass (Plate 1) and/or Wallaby Grass (Plate 2), with Wallaby Grass more common in the

patches with a higher cover of planted trees and shrubs. Some patches, particularly several areas of habitat

zone GW2, contain over 80 per cent native grass cover. Very few other non-planted native species were

recorded within these patches, with only occasional occurrences of native forbs such as Kidney Weed

Dichondra repens and Common Purslane Portulaca oleracea. Many of the patches occur in maintained lawn

areas adjacent or surrounded by areas of introduced grasses (Plate 3).

Habitat Zone GW1 was differentiated from Habitat Zone GW2 by having an overall lower cover of litter, due

to having fewer planted trees and shrubs within the patches. Habitat Zone GW2 also had fewer introduced

species present, and a higher cover of bare ground. Habitat Zone GW3 was similar to Habitat Zone GW1,

differentiated by the presence of one Silver-leaf Stringybark Eucalyptus cephalocarpa s.l. present in the

habitat zone.

Most patches contained a variety of introduced species. Common species included introduced grasses such

as Panic Veldt-grass Ehrharta erecta var. erecta, Paspalum Paspalum dilatatum, Couch Cynodon dactylon,


Kikuyu Cenchrus clandestinus, and Rat-tail Grass Sporobolus africanus, as well as other weeds such as

Ribwort Plantago lanceolata and Pimpernel Lysimachia arvensis.

Plate 1. Remnant vegetation dominated by Weeping Grass within the study area (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016).

Plate 2. Remnant vegetation dominated by Wallaby Grass within the study area (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016).

3.1.3 Scattered Trees

Three (3) scattered native trees occur near the northern boundary of the study area (Figure 2): Two Silver-

leaf Stringybark and one River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Plate 4) (Appendix 2.4). The previous tree

assessment identified approximately 245 trees within the study area, including many indigenous species,

however almost all were assessed as planted specimens (Galbraith and Associates 2017). An additional

scattered native tree occurs outside the western property boundary along Jacksons Road.

Plate 3. Lawn area showing area dominated by native grass on the right (dull green) and area dominated by introduced grass on the left (bright green) (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016).

Plate 4. Scattered tree within the study area (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016).


3.1.4 Introduced and Planted Vegetation

Planted Vegetation

The study area contains large areas of planted vegetation, including exotic and non-Victorian tree and shrub

species (Plate 5), and areas of landscaped gardens around the buildings. Commonly planted species include

Spotted Gum and Lemon-scented Gum, as well as ornamentals such as Olive Olea europaea, Plum Prunus

spp. and Cypress Cupressus. Garden beds adjacent to the buildings contained a variety of ornamental and

native shrubs.

Introduced Vegetation

Areas not supporting remnant vegetation have a high cover (>70%) of introduced grass species, particularly

those that are commonly found in lawns such as Paspalum, Couch and Kikuyu (Plate 6). Panic Veldt-grass was

common in shady areas underneath shrubs.

Two Weeds of National Significance (WONS) were found in the study area: one specimen of Blackberry

Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. in the north east corner of the property, and scattered small recruits of Broom

Genista spp. near the western fenceline.


Plate 5. A row of planted trees within the study area (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016)

Plate 6. Lawn area containing introduced grasses and planted trees in background within the study area (Photo EHP: 21/3/2016)

3.2 Fauna Habitat

The majority of the study area consists of open modified lawn areas containing native and introduced

grasses. These open areas are likely to be used as a foraging resource by common generalist bird species

which are tolerant of modified open areas. Fauna observed using this habitat included Australian Magpie

Cracticus tibicen.

Scattered trees and planted vegetation are likely to provide foraging, roosting and nesting habitat for mobile

generalist fauna including locally common birds, microbats and possums. Species observed using scattered

trees included Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala, Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata, Rainbow

Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus and Corella Cacatua spp.

3.3 Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines)

3.3.1 Vegetation proposed to be removed


such, the permit application falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathway. This includes 1.461 hectares of

remnant patches and one scattered tree.

As the application falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathway, a habitat hectare assessment was

completed to determine condition scores of vegetation proposed to be removed, with condition scores

provided in Appendix 2.3.


Table 3. Permitted Clearing Assessment (the Guidelines)

Risk-based pathway Moderate

Total Extent 1.532

Remnant Patch (ha) 1.461

Scattered Trees (no.) 1

Location Risk A

Strategic Biodiversity Score 0.111

3.3.2 Offset Targets


A summary of proposed vegetation losses and associated offset requirements is presented in Table 4 and the

Biodiversity Impact and Offset Requirements (BIOR) Report is presented in Appendix 4.

Table 4. Offset targets

General Offsets Required 0.050 General BEUs

Specific Offsets Required None

Vicinity (catchment / LGA) Port Philip and Westernport CMA / Monash City Council

Minimum Strategic Biodiversity Score* 0.089

Note: BEU = Biodiversity Equivalence Units

3.4 Significance Assessment

3.4.1 Flora

Thirty-nine flora species (six indigenous and 33 non-indigenous) were recorded within the study area during

the field assessment. The majority of these species are considered to be locally common and a consolidated

list of flora species recorded is provided in Appendix 2.1.

The VBA and FIS contain records of seven nationally significant and 31 State significant flora species

previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area (DELWP 2016d; Viridans 2014a) (Appendix 2.2;

Figure 3). The PMST nominated an additional four nationally significant species which have not been

recorded in the locality but have the potential to occur (DoE 2016).

Based on the modified nature of the study area, landscape context and the proximity of previous records,

significant flora species are considered unlikely to occur within the study area (Appendix 2.2). In particular,

the study area is highly modified and although there are native grasses present on the site, there is no

indigenous tree or shrub canopy remaining and as such there is little habitat available for significant flora

species.

3.4.2 Fauna

The VBA and AVW contain records of 16 nationally significant, 42 State significant and 17 regionally

significant fauna species previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area (DELWP 2016d; Viridans


2014b) (Appendix 3.2; Figure 4). The PMST nominated an additional five nationally significant species which

have not been recorded in the locality but have the potential to occur (DoE 2016).

Based on the modified nature of the study area, landscape context and the proximity of previous records,

significant fauna species are considered unlikely to occur within the study area (Appendix 3.2).

3.4.3 Communities

Two nationally listed ecological communities (Natural Damp Grassland of the Victorian Coastal Plains and

White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland) are predicted to

occur within 10 kilometres of the study area (DoE 2016). However, vegetation within the study area did not

meet the condition thresholds that define any national or State-significant communities.


4 LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

4.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth)

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) establishes a Commonwealth

process for the assessment of proposed actions likely to have a significant impact on any matters of National

Environment Significance (NES), described in Table 5.

Table 5. Potential impacts to matters of National Environmental Significance (NES)

Matter of NES Potential Impacts

World Heritage properties The proposed action will not impact any properties listed for World Heritage.

National heritage places The proposed action will not impact any places listed for national heritage.

Ramsar wetlands of international significance

The study area occurs within 10 km of one Ramsar wetland (DoE 2016): Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands.

Provided management practices and construction techniques are consistent with Construction Techniques for Sediment Pollution Control (EPA 1991) and Environmental Guidelines for Major Construction Sites (EPA 1996), the proposed action is unlikely to impact the ecological character of any Ramsar wetland.

Threatened species and ecological communities

No habitat was identified within the study area for species listed under the EPBC Act (Section 3.4.1 and 3.4.2). No ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act were recorded within the study area (Section 3.4.3).

Migratory and marine species

Several Migratory and/or Marine species have been recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area (DELWP 2016d; Appendix 3.1). However, the study area would not be classed as an ‘important habitat’ as defined under the EPBC Act Policy Statement 1.1 Principal Significant Impact Guidelines (DoE 2013).

Commonwealth marine area The proposed action will not impact any Commonwealth marine areas.

Nuclear actions (including uranium mining)

The proposed action is not a nuclear action.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

The proposed action will not impact the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Water resources impacted by coal seam gas or mining development

The proposed action is not a coal seam gas or mining development.

4.1.1 Implications

The proposed action is unlikely to have a significant impact on any matter of NES. As such, a referral to the

Commonwealth Environment Minister is unlikely to be required regarding matters listed under the EPBC Act.

4.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Victoria)

The FFG Act is the primary legislation dealing with biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of native

flora and fauna in Victoria. Proponents are required to apply for an FFG Act Permit to ‘take’ listed and/or

protected flora species, listed vegetation communities and listed fish species in areas of public land (i.e.


within road reserves, drainage lines and public reserves). An FFG Act permit is generally not required for

removal of species or communities on private land, or for the removal of habitat for a listed terrestrial fauna

species.

There is unlikely to be suitable habitat within the study area for species listed under the FFG Act (Section

3.4).

4.2.1 Implications

There is unlikely to be suitable habitat within the study area for species listed or protected under the FFG

Act. Furthermore, as the study area is privately owned, a permit under the FFG Act is not required.

4.3 Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Victoria)

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 outlines the legislative framework for planning in Victoria and for

the development and administration of planning schemes. All planning schemes contain native vegetation

provisions at Clause 52.17 which require a planning permit from the relevant local Council to remove,

destroy or lop native vegetation on a site of more than 0.4 hectares, unless an exemption under clause

52.17-7 of the Victorian Planning Schemes applies (Appendix 1.5.3) or a subdivision is proposed with lots less

than 0.4 hectares2. Local planning schemes may contain other provisions in relation to the removal of native

vegetation (Section 4.3.1).

4.3.1 Local Planning Schemes

The study area is located within the Monash City Council municipality. The Schedule 2 General Residential

Zone (R2Z) applies to the study area. No overlays are applicable. (DELWP 2016e).

4.3.2 The Guidelines

The State Planning Policy Framework and the decision guidelines at Clause 52.17 (Native Vegetation) and

Clause 12.01 require Planning and Responsible Authorities to have regard for ‘Permitted clearing of native

vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines’ (the Guidelines) (DEPI 2013). Where the clearing of native

vegetation is permitted, the quantity and type of vegetation to be offset is determined using methodology

specified in the Guidelines. The primary objective of the regulations is “no net loss in the contribution made

by native vegetation to Victoria’s biodiversity”.

A permit will be referred to DELWP as a ‘recommending authority’ if vegetation removal meets one or more

of the below thresholds (Table 6).

Table 6. Permit to remove native vegetation – application referral triggers (Clause 66, Referral and Notice Provisions)

Native Vegetation

Remove, destroy or lop native vegetation where the area to be cleared is 0.5 hectares or more

Remove, destroy or lop native vegetation which is to be considered under the High Risk-based pathway

2 In accordance with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal’s (VCAT) decision Villawood v Greater Bendigo CC

(2005) VCAT 2703 (20 December 2005) all native vegetation is considered lost where proposed lots are less than 0.4 hectares in area and must be offset at the time of subdivision.


Other Circumstances

Remove, destroy or lop native vegetation if a property vegetation plan applies to the site

Remove, destroy or lop native vegetation on Crown land which is occupied or managed by the responsible authority

4.3.3 Implications


such, the permit application falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathway.


A Planning Permit from Monash City Council is required to remove, destroy or lop any native vegetation. In

this instance, the application will be referred to DELWP as greater than 0.5 hectares of vegetation are

proposed for removal.

4.4 Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2013 (Victoria)

The Wildlife Act 1975 (and associated Wildlife Regulations 2013) is the primary legislation in Victoria

providing for protection and management of wildlife. Authorisation for habitat removal may be obtained

under the Wildlife Act 1975 through a licence granted under the Forests Act 1958, or under any other Act

such as the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Any persons engaged to remove, salvage, hold or relocate

native fauna during construction must hold a current Management Authorisation under the Wildlife Act

1975, issued by DELWP.

4.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (Victoria)

The Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLP Act) contains provisions relating to catchment planning,

land management, noxious weeds and pest animals. Landowners are responsible for the control of any

infestation of noxious weeds and pest fauna species to minimise their spread and impact on ecological

values.

Two weeds listed as noxious under the CaLP Act were recorded during the assessment (Blackberry and

Broom). Preparation of a Weed Management Plan may be required if specified as a condition on an

approved planning permit or related approval document.


5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS

The proposed action is likely to directly impact on several indigenous flora and fauna species, and

communities recorded within the study area. These impacts may include:

The removal of remnant patches of one endangered EVCs (Grassy Woodland);

Removal of well-established planted Victorian trees and three scattered indigenous trees likely to

provide habitat for locally common fauna species such as birds and possums;

Potential for the spread of weeds and soil pathogens due to on-site activities;

Disturbance to wildlife from increased human activity and noise during construction; and,

Indirect impacts on adjacent areas if construction activities and drainage are not appropriately

managed.


6 MITIGATION MEASURES

6.1 Minimise Impacts

For the removal of vegetation that falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathways, the Guidelines (DEPI

2013) require the responsible authority to consider whether reasonable steps have been taken to ensure

that impacts of the proposed removal of native vegetation on biodiversity have been minimised.

Minimisation effort should be commensurate with the contribution that the native vegetation makes to

Victoria’s biodiversity (DELWP 2016c).

6.1.1 Contribution to Victoria’s Biodiversity

The Handbook (DELWP 2015) describes the relevant information to consider when determining the

contribution native vegetation makes to Victoria’s biodiversity (Table 7). Based on available information it is

determined that the native vegetation proposed to be removed as part of the current application has a Low

contribution to Victoria’s biodiversity.

Table 7. Assessment of the contribution the native vegetation makes to Victoria's biodiversity (as per Table 3 of the Handbook [DELWP 2016c])

Criteria Assessment Contribution

What is the extent and condition of native vegetation?

Habitat hectare assessment

• The higher the value, the greater the contribution to Victoria's biodiversity.

• Scores above 0.8 indicate very good condition.

Total extent: 1.532 hectares (1.461 hectares of remnant patch and 1 scattered tree).

Habitat score: 0.18 to 0.25

Low

What is the landscape biodiversity value of the native vegetation?

Strategic Biodiversity Score

• The higher the value, the greater the contribution to Victoria's biodiversity.

• Scores above 0.8 are very important sites.

0.111 Low

Is the native vegetation important habitat for rare or threatened species?

Number of Rare or Threatened species habitats impacted

• The more species listed, the greater the contribution the native vegetation makes to Victoria's biodiversity.

• Site observations may also be considered.

None

Based on overall impacts to habitat for rare or threatened species the overall

impact is considered to be Low.

Number of Rare or Threatened species habitats impacted above the specific offset threshold

• The more species requiring a specific offset, the greater the contribution the native vegetation makes to Victoria's biodiversity.

None

The proportional impact for species requiring a specific offset

• The higher the proportional impacts, the more

None impacted


important that site is for that particular species.

Habitat importance score for impacted species

• The higher the habitat importance score, the more important that site is for that particular species.

None impacted

Impact on highly localised habitat

• Native vegetation that provides habitat for species with highly localised habitat is very important vegetation as it is limited and any loss needs to be carefully considered.

None impacted

6.1.2 Minimisation Statement3

A development plan has not yet been prepared for the study area. Minimisation measures will be considered

once a development plan has been finalised.

However, the site is not considered to make a significant contribution to Victoria’s biodiversity (Table 7).

Although native grasses are widespread and often occur with high cover, there is no indigenous tree or shrub

canopy remaining in the site and very few other native species present, and as such these patches can be

considered to be highly modified and lacking in native species diversity. In addition, the woodland patches

are now highly fragmented and lack connectivity to higher quality woodland remnants located elsewhere in

the local area.

6.2 Best Practice Mitigation Measures

Recommended measures to mitigate impacts upon terrestrial and aquatic values present within the study

area may include:

3 Section 5.2 (page 20) of the Handbook (DELWP 2016e) states:

“Minimisation should target native vegetation that makes the greatest contribution to Victoria’s biodiversity - that is, areas of better condition, higher strategic biodiversity score, and/or higher habitat importance scores.

The minimisation statement could state that minimisation was achieved by a past strategic planning exercise or by site interventions, or that it is not achievable or desirable on site for specific reasons.”

Section 6.3.2 (page 26) of the Handbook (DELWP 2016e) states:

“Minimisation should be commensurate with the contribution that the native vegetation makes to Victoria’s biodiversity. Minimum effort can be considered reasonable when the native vegetation contributes lower value to Victoria’s biodiversity – for example, only general offsets are required, strategic biodiversity score is low, the native vegetation is limited in extent and isolated from other patches of remnant vegetation.”

Section 6.5, Table 4 (page 29) of the Handbook (DELWP 2016e) states:

“Statement can describe that minimisation is unreasonable at the site level because the native vegetation makes a very low contribution to biodiversity (such as no species offset requires, low strategic biodiversity score) or because retained native vegetation would have limited long term prospect of retaining biodiversity value.”


Minimise impacts to native vegetation and habitats through construction and micro-siting

techniques, including fencing retained areas of native vegetation. If indeed necessary, trees should

be lopped or trimmed rather than removed. Similarly, soil disturbance should be avoided or kept to

a minimum, to avoid, or minimise impacts to fauna habitats;

All contractors should be aware of ecologically sensitive areas to minimise the likelihood of

inadvertent disturbance to any areas marked for retention. Habitat zones (areas of sensitivity)

should be included as a mapping overlay on any construction plans;

Removal of any habitat trees or shrubs should be undertaken between February and September to

avoid the breeding season for the majority of fauna species. If any habitat trees or shrubs are

proposed to be removed, this should be undertaken under the supervision of an appropriately

qualified zoologist to salvage and translocate any displaced fauna. A Fauna Management Plan may

be required to guide the salvage and translocation process;

Where possible, construction stockpiles, machinery, roads, and other infrastructure should be

placed away from areas supporting native vegetation, LOTs and/or wetlands;

Ensure that best practice sedimentation and pollution control measures are undertaken at all times,

in accordance with Environment Protection Agency guidelines (EPA 1991; EPA 1996; Victorian

Stormwater Committee 1999) to prevent offsite impacts to waterways and wetlands; and,

As indigenous flora provides valuable habitat for indigenous fauna, it is recommended that any

landscape plantings that are undertaken as part of the proposed works are conducted using

indigenous species sourced from a local provenance, rather than exotic deciduous trees and shrubs.

In addition to these measures, the following documents should be prepared and implemented prior to any

construction activities if required as a condition of a planning permit or other relevant approvals:

Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). The CEMP should include specific

species/vegetation conservation strategies, daily monitoring, sedimentation management, site

specific rehabilitation plans, weed and pathogen management measures, etc.;

Weed Management Plan. This plan should follow the guidelines set out in the CaLP Act, and clearly

outline any obligations of the project team in relation to minimising the spread of weeds as a result

of this project. This may include a pre-clearance weed survey undertaken prior to any construction

activities to record and map the locations of all noxious and environmental weeds; and,

Fauna Management Plan. This may be required if habitat for common fauna species is likely to be

impacted and salvage and translocation must be undertaken to minimise the risk of injury or death

to those species. There are over 200 trees within the study area, and although the majority are

planted they still may provide habitat for fauna such as possums.


6.3 Offset Impacts

6.3.1 State (The Guidelines)

6.3.1.1 Offset Criteria

The Guidelines (DEPI 2013) require offsetting as the final step in considering the impacts of development on

native vegetation. Under the Moderate and High Risk-based pathway, emphasis is placed on minimising

impacts, and only after these steps have been taken should offsets be considered. Offset targets must be

met, as specified in Section 3.2.

6.3.1.2 Offset Options

Potential offsets may be sourced using the following mechanisms:

BushBroker: BushBroker maintains a register of landowners who are willing to sell offset credits.

Offsets secured by Bushbroker are done so via a Section 69 Agreement under the Conservation,

Forest and Lands Act 1987.

Trust for Nature: Trust for Nature holds a list of landowners who are willing to sell vegetation offsets.

Offsets secured by Trust for Nature are done so under the Victorian Conservation Trust Act 1972.

Local Councils: The proponent may contact local councils to seek availability of offsets.

Over-the-Counter Offsets Scheme: The Guidelines include the expansion of the “Over-the-Counter”

(OTC) Offsets Scheme, allowing non-government agencies to establish themselves as OTC Facilities.

OTC Facilities will broker native vegetation offsets (credits) between landholders (with offset sites)

and permit holders (with offset requirements).

6.3.1.3 Offset Strategy

Ecology and Heritage Partners are a DELWP accredited OTC offset broker. Ecology and Heritage Partners

broker native vegetation credits between permit holders and credit holders across all CMAs.

Ecology and Heritage Partners can confirm that the offset obligations generated by this proposal can

currently be satisfied through existing credits registered in our OTC database. Several landowners registered

in our offset database have suitable General Biodiversity Equivalence Unit (BEUs) native vegetation credits

available within the Port Philip and Westernport CMA, and it is anticipated that the relevant offset

obligations generated by this proposal can be secured through an OTC scheme without any difficulty should

a permit be issued for the development.


7 FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Further requirements associated with development of the study area, as well as additional studies or

reporting that may be required, are provided in Table 8.

Table 8. Further requirements associated with development of the study area

Relevant Legislation Implications Further Action

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The proposed action is unlikely to have a significant impact on any matter of NES. As such, a referral to the Commonwealth Environment Minister is unlikely to be required regarding matters listed under the EPBC Act.

No further action required.

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988

There is unlikely to be suitable habitat within the study area for species listed or protected under the FFG Act. Furthermore, as the study area is privately owned, a permit under the FFG Act is not required.

No further action required.

Planning and Environment Act 1987

The study area is within Location A, with 1.532 hectares of native vegetation proposed to be removed. As such, the permit application falls under the Moderate Risk-based pathway.


A Planning Permit from Monash City Council is required to remove, destroy or lop any native vegetation. In this instance, the application will be referred to DELWP as greater than 0.5 hectares of vegetation are proposed for removal.

Prepare and submit a Planning Permit application. Planning Permit conditions may include a requirement for:

Demonstration of impact minimisation.

Identification of a compliant offset, as detailed in Section 3.2.

A Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP).

Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994

Several weed species listed under the CaLP Act were recorded within the study area. To meet requirements under the CaLP Act, listed noxious weeds should be appropriately controlled throughout the study area.

Planning Permit conditions may include a requirement for a Weed Management Plan.

Wildlife Act 1975

Any persons engaged to conduct salvage and translocation or general handling of terrestrial fauna species must hold a current Management Authorisation.

Ensure wildlife specialists hold a current Management Authorisation.


REFERENCES

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Collingwood, Victoria.

Cogger, H. G (Ed). 1996. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. 5th Edition. Reed Books Australia, Victoria.

Cogger, H.G., Cameron, E.E., Sadlier, R.A. and Eggler P., 1993. The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles.

Australian Nature conservation Agency, Canberra, ACT.

DELWP 2016a. Native Vegetation Information Management Tool [WWW Document] URL

http://nvim.depi.vic.gov.au/. Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

DELWP 2016b. Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) Benchmarks for each Bioregion [WWW Document]. URL

http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/environment-and-wildlife/biodiversity/evc-benchmarks#bioregionname.

Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

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DELWP 2016d. Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Sourced from: “VBA_FLORA25”, “VBA_FLORA100”,

“VBA_FAUNA25”, “VBA_FAUNA100”, June 2015. Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water

and Planning.

DELWP 2016e. Planning Maps Online [www Document]. URL

http://services.land.vic.gov.au/landchannel/jsp/map/PlanningMapsIntro.jsp.

DELWP 2016f. Planning Schemes Online. [www Document]. URL. http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/.

Melbourne, Victoria. Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Melbourne,

Victoria.

DELWP 2015. Biodiversity assessment handbook, Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Version 1.0.

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Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

DEPI 2014. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria. Victorian Department of Environment and

Primary Industry.

DoE 2013. Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1. Matters of National Environmental Significance. Federal

Department of the Environment, Canberra.

DoE 2016. Protected Matters Search Tool: Interactive Map [WWW Document]. URL

http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/. Federal Department of Environment, Canberra.

DSE 2004. Vegetation quality assessment manual: Guidelines for applying the habitat hectares scoring

method. Version 1.3. Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment.

DSE 2009. Advisory list of Threatened Invertebrate Fauna in Victoria – 2009. Victorian Department of

Sustainability and Environment.


DSE 2013. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Fauna in Victoria. Victorian Department of Sustainability and

Environment.

Duncan, A., Baker, G.B. and Montgomery, N. (Eds) 1999. The Action Plan for Australian Bats. Environment

Australia. Canberra, ACT.

EPA 1991. Construction Techniques for Sediment Pollution Control. Published document prepared by the

Victorian Environment Protection Authority, Victoria.

EPA 1996. Environmental Guidelines for Major Construction Sites. Published document prepared by the

Victorian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Galbraith and Associates 2017. Letter of advice re: 62 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave. Galbraith and Associates

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Garnett, S., J. Szabo and G. Dutson 2011. The action plan for Australian Birds 2010. Collingwood, Victoria:

CSIRO Publishing.

Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. 2004. A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia . 2nd Edition. Oxford University

Press, Victoria.

Nelson, J. S. 1994. Fishes of the World, 3rd Edition. John Wiley & Sons, New York.

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Environment, Victoria.

Sands, D.P.A. and New, T.R. 2002. The Action Plan for Australian Butterflies, Environment Australia,

Canberra.

Strahan, R. (Ed) 1995. The Mammals of Australia. Reed Books, Sydney.

Tyler, M.J. 1997. The Action Plan for Australian Frogs. Wildlife Australia: Canberra.

Victorian Urban Stormwater Committee 1999. Urban Stormwater: Best Practice Environmental Management

Guidelines. CSIRO.

Viridans 2014a. Flora Information System. Viridans Biological Databases.

Viridans 2014b. Victorian Fauna Database. Viridans Biological Databases.

Walsh, N.G., Stajsic, V. 2007. A census of the vascular plants of Victoria, 8th ed. ed. Royal Botanic Gardens

Melbourne.

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Publishing, Melbourne.


FIGURES


APPENDICES


APPENDIX 1

Appendix 1.1 – Rare or Threatened Categories for Listed Victorian Taxa

Table A1.1. Rare or Threatened categories for listed Victorian taxa.

Rare or Threatened Categories

Conservation Status in Australia (Based on the EPBC Act 1999)

EX - Extinct: Extinct is when there is no reasonable doubt that the last individual of the species has died.

CR - Critically Endangered: A species is critically endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future.

EN - Endangered: A species is endangered when it is not critically endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.

VU - Vulnerable: A species is vulnerable when it is not critically endangered or endangered but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future.

R* - Rare: A species is rare but overall is not currently considered critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable.

K* - Poorly Known: A species is suspected, but not definitely known, to belong to any of the categories extinct, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable or rare.

Conservation Status in Victoria (Based on DSE 2005, DSE 2009, DSE 2013)

x - Presumed Extinct in Victoria: not recorded from Victoria during the past 50 years despite field searches specifically for the plant, or, alternatively, intensive field searches (since 1950) at all previously known sites have failed to record the plant.

e - Endangered in Victoria: at risk of disappearing from the wild state if present land use and other causal factors continue to operate.

v - Vulnerable in Victoria: not presently endangered but likely to become so soon due to continued depletion; occurring mainly on sites likely to experience changes in land-use which would threaten the survival of the plant in the wild; or, taxa whose total population is so small that the likelihood of recovery from disturbance, including localised natural events such as drought, fire or landslip, is doubtful.

r - Rare in Victoria: rare but not considered otherwise threatened - there are relatively few known populations or the taxon is restricted to a relatively small area.

k - Poorly Known in Victoria: poorly known and suspected, but not definitely known, to belong to one of the above categories (x, e, v or r) within Victoria. At present, accurate distribution information is inadequate.


Appendix 1.2 – Defining Ecological Significance

Table A1.2. Criteria for defining Ecological Significance ratings for significant flora, fauna and communities.

National Significance

Flora:

National conservation status is based on the EPBC Act list of taxa considered threatened in Australia (i.e. extinct, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable).

Fauna:

National conservation status is based on the EPBC Act list of taxa considered threatened in Australia (i.e. Extinct, Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable).

Fauna listed as Extinct, Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Rare under National Action Plans for terrestrial taxon prepared for DoE: mammals (Woinarski et al. 2014), bats (Duncan et al. 1999), birds (Garnett et al. 2011), reptiles (Cogger et al. 1993), amphibians (Tyler 1997) and butterflies (Sands and New 2002).

Communities:

Vegetation communities considered critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable under the EPBC Act and considering vegetation condition.

State Significance

Flora:

Threatened taxa listed under the provisions of the FFG Act.

Flora listed in the State Government’s Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria (DEPI 2014).

Fauna:

Threatened taxon listed under Schedule 2 of the FFG Act.

Fauna listed as Extinct, Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable on the State Government’s Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria (DSE 2013).

Listed as Lower Risk (Near Threatened, Conservation Dependent or Least concern) or Data Deficient under National Action Plans for terrestrial species prepared for the DoE: mammals (Woinarski et al. 2014), bats (Duncan et al. 1999), birds (Garnett et al. 2011), reptiles (Cogger et al. 1993), amphibians (Tyler 1997) and butterflies (Sands and New 2002).

Communities:

Ecological communities listed as threatened under the FFG Act.

EVC listed as threatened (i.e. endangered, vulnerable) or rare in a Native Vegetation Plan for a particular bioregion (DSE 2013c) and considering vegetation condition.

Regional Significance

Fauna:

Fauna with a disjunct distribution, or a small number of documented recorded or naturally rare in the particular Bioregion in which the study area is located.

A particular taxon that is has an unusual ecological or biogeographical occurrence or listed as Lower Risk – Near Threatened, Data Deficient or Insufficiently Known on the State Government’s Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria (DSE 2013).

Communities:

EVC listed as depleted or least concern in a Native Vegetation Plan for a particular bioregion (DSE 2013c) and considering vegetation condition.

EVC considered rare by the author for a particular bioregion.

Local Significance

Local significance is defined as flora, fauna and ecological communities indigenous to a particular area, which are not considered rare or threatened on a national, state or regional level.

http://(dse/


Appendix 1.3 – Defining Site Significance

Table A1.3. Criteria for defining Site Significance ratings.

National Significance

A site is of National significance if:

It regularly supports, or has a high probability of regularly supporting individuals of a taxon listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ or ‘Endangered’ under the EPBC Act and/or under National Action Plans for terrestrial taxon prepared for the DoE.

It regularly supports, or has a high probability of supporting, an ‘important population’ as defined under the EPBC Act of one or more nationally ‘vulnerable’ flora and fauna taxon.

It is known to support, or has a high probability of supporting taxon listed as ‘Vulnerable’ under National Action Plans.

It is known to regularly support a large proportion (i.e. greater than 1%) of a population of a taxon listed as ‘Conservation Dependent’ under the EPBC Act and/or listed as Rare or Lower Risk (near threatened, conservation dependent or least concern) under National Action Plans.

It contains an area, or part thereof designated as ‘critical habitat’ under the EPBC Act, or if the site is listed under the Register of National Estate compiled by the Australian Heritage Commission.

It is a site which forms part of, or is connected to a larger area(s) of remnant native vegetation or habitat of national conservation significance such as most National Park, and/or a Ramsar Wetland(s).

State Significance

A site is of State significance if:

It occasionally (i.e. every 1 to 5 years) supports, or has suitable habitat to support taxon listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ or ‘Endangered’ under the EPBC Act and/or under National Action Plans.

It regularly supports, or has a high probability of regularly supporting (i.e. high habitat quality) taxon listed as ‘Vulnerable’, ‘Near threatened‘, ‘Data Deficient’ or ‘Insufficiently Known’ in Victoria (DEPI 2014, 2013), or species listed as ‘Data Deficient’ or ‘Insufficiently Known’ under National Action Plans.

It contains an area, or part thereof designated as ‘critical habitat’ under the FFG Act.

It supports, or likely to support a high proportion of any Victorian flora and fauna taxa.

It contains high quality, intact vegetation/habitat supporting a high species richness and diversity in a particular bioregion.

It is a site which forms part of, or connected to a larger area(s) of remnant native vegetation or habitat of state conservation significance such as most State Parks and/or Flora and Fauna Reserves.

Regional Significance

A site is of Regional significance if:

It regularly supports, or has a high probability of regularly supporting regionally significant fauna as defined in Table 1.2.

Is contains a large population (i.e. greater than 1% or 5%) of flora considered rare in any regional native vegetation plan for a particular bioregion.

It supports a fauna population with a disjunct distribution, or a particular taxon that has an unusual ecological or biogeographical occurrence.

It is a site which forms part of, or is connected to a larger area(s) of remnant native vegetation or habitat of regional conservation significance such as most Regional Parks and/or Flora and Fauna Reserves.

Local Significance

Most sites are considered to be of at least local significant for conservation, and in general a site of local significance can be defined as:

An area which supports indigenous flora species and/or a remnant EVC, and habitats used by locally significant fauna species.

An area which currently acts, or has the potential to act as a wildlife corridor linking other areas of higher conservation significance and facilitating fauna movement throughout the landscape.


Appendix 1.4 – Vegetation Condition and Habitat Quality

Table A1.4.1 Defining Vegetation Condition ratings.

Criteria for defining Vegetation Condition

High Quality:

Vegetation dominated by a diversity of indigenous species, with defined structures (where appropriate), such as canopy layer, shrub layer, and ground cover, with little or few introduced species present.

Moderate Quality:

Vegetation dominated by a diversity of indigenous species, but is lacking some structures, such as canopy layer, shrub layer or ground cover, and/or there is a greater level of introduced flora species present.

Low Quality:

Vegetation dominated by introduced species, but supports low levels of indigenous species present, in the canopy, shrub layer or ground cover.

Table A1.4.2 Defining Habitat Quality.

Criteria for defining Habitat Quality

High Quality:

High degree of intactness (i.e. floristically and structurally diverse), containing several important habitat features such as ground debris (logs, rocks, vegetation), mature hollow-bearing trees, and a dense understorey component.

High species richness and diversity (i.e. represented by a large number of species from a range of fauna groups).

High level of foraging and breeding activity, with the site regularly used by native fauna for refuge and cover.

Habitat that has experienced, or is experiencing low levels of disturbance and/or threatening processes (i.e. weed invasion, introduced animals, soil erosion, salinity).

High contribution to a wildlife corridor, and/or connected to a larger area(s) of high quality habitat.

Provides known, or likely habitat for one or more rare or threatened species listed under the EPBC Act, FFG Act, or species considered rare or threatened according to DEPI 2014; 2009 or 2013.

Moderate Quality:

Moderate degree of intactness, containing one or more important habitat features such as ground debris (logs, rocks, vegetation), mature hollow-bearing trees, and a dense understorey component.

Moderate species richness and diversity - represented by a moderate number of species from a range of fauna groups.

Moderate levels of foraging and breeding activity, with the site used by native fauna for refuge and cover.

Habitat that has experienced, or is experiencing moderate levels of disturbance and/or threatening processes.

Moderate contribution to a wildlife corridor, or is connected to area(s) of moderate quality habitat.

Provides potential habitat for a small number of threatened species listed under the EPBC Act, FFG Act, or species considered rare or threatened according to DEPI 2014; 2009 or 2013.

Low Quality:

Low degree of intactness, containing few important habitat features such as ground debris (logs, rocks, vegetation), mature hollow-bearing trees, and a dense understorey component.

Low species richness and diversity (i.e. represented by a small number of species from a range of fauna groups).

Low levels of foraging and breeding activity, with the site used by native fauna for refuge and cover.

Habitat that has experienced, or is experiencing high levels of disturbance and/or threatening processes.

Unlikely to form part of a wildlife corridor, and is not connected to another area(s) of habitat.

Unlikely to provide habitat for rare or threatened species listed under the EPBC Act, FFG Act, or considered rare or threatened according to DEPI 2014; 2009 or 2013.


Appendix 1.5 – Offsets and Exemptions

Table A1.5.1. Calculation of Biodiversity Equivalence Scores and General or Specific Offsets (DEPI 2013)

Pathway Biodiversity Assessment Tools Information Source

Low Risk-based pathway

Condition Score Modelled data, NVIM Tool (DELWP 2016c)

Habitat Hectares = Condition Score x Extent (ha)

Strategic Biodiversity Score Modelled data, NVIM Tool (DELWP 2016c)

General Biodiversity Equivalence Score = Habitat Hectares x Strategic Biodiversity Score

Moderate or High Risk-based pathway

Condition Score Habitat hectare assessment

Habitat Hectares = Condition Score x Extent (ha)

Strategic Biodiversity Score and Habitat Importance Score

Modelled data, determined by DEPI

Specific Biodiversity Equivalence Score (A) = Habitat Hectares x Habitat Importance Score

Sum of Specific Biodiversity Equivalence Scores of remaining habitat (B)

Data gathered during the site assessment is provided to DEPI for analysis and a resulting assessment offset report is provided by the Department.

Specific Offset Threshold (C)

General/Specific Threshold Test:

If A ÷ B > C a Specific offset is required

If A ÷ B < C a General offset required

Table A1.5.2. Summary of offset requirements (DEPI 2013)

Risk –based Pathway

Offset Type

Offset Amount (Risk adjusted biodiversity

equivalence score)

Offset Attributes

Habitat for Species Vicinity Strategic

Biodiversity Score

Low Risk General offset

1.5 times the general biodiversity equivalence score of the native vegetation to be removed.

No restrictions

In the same Catchment Management Authority or Local Government Area boundary as the native vegetation to be removed.

At least 80 per cent of the strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed.

Moderate or High Risk

General offset

1.5 times the general biodiversity equivalence score of the native vegetation to be removed.

No restrictions

In the same Catchment Management Authority or Local Government Area boundary as the native vegetation to be removed.

At least 80 per cent of the strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed.

Moderate or High Risk

Specific offset

For each species impacted, 2 times the specific biodiversity equivalence score of the native vegetation to be removed.

Likely habitat for each rare or threatened species that a specific offset is required for, according to the specific-general offset test.

No restrictions No restrictions


APPENDIX 2 - FLORA

Appendix 2.1 – Flora Results

Table A2.1. Flora recorded within the study area. Note that this list does not include all planted species.

Legend:

w Weed of National Significance;

n Listed as a noxious weed under the Catchment and Land Protection (CaLP) Act 1994;

# Planted non-Victorian and Victorian species; and,

* Planted and naturally occurring indigenous species in the study area.

Scientific Name Common Name

Indigenous Species

Eucalyptus camaldulensis* River Red-gum

Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass

Dichondra repens Kidney-weed

Eucalyptus cephalocarpa s.l. Silver-leaf Stringybark

Portulaca oleracea Common Purslane

Rytidosperma spp. Wallaby Grass

Introduced and Non-indigenous Species

Acacia baileyana Cootamundra Wattle

Avena spp. Oat

Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass

Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu

Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane

Coprosma repens Mirror Bush

Corymbia citriodora subsp. citriodora # Lemon-scented Gum

Corymbia maculata # Spotted Gum

Cupressus spp. Cypress

Cynodon dactylon Couch

Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot

Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Panic Veldt-grass

Eucalyptus botryoides # Southern Mahogany

Eucalyptus melliodora # Yellow Box

Eucalyptus sideroxylon subsp. sideroxylon # Mugga

Galenia pubescens var. pubescens Galenia

Genista spp. w n Broom


Scientific Name Common Name

Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed

Lactuca serriola Prickly Lettuce

Lepidium africanum Common Peppercress

Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass

Lysimachia arvensis Pimpernel

Malva spp. Mallow

Melaleuca armillaris subsp. armillaris # Giant Honey-myrtle

Olea europaea Olive

Oxalis spp. Wood Sorrel

Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum

Pittosporum spp. Pittosporum

Plantago lanceolata Ribwort

Prunus spp. Prunus

Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. w n Blackberry

Solanum nigrum s.l. Black Nightshade

Sporobolus africanus Rat-tail Grass


Appendix 2.2 – Significant Flora Species

Table A2.2 Significant flora recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area

Likelihood: Habitat characteristics of significant flora species previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area, or that may potentially occur within the study area were assessed to determine their likelihood of occurrence. The likelihood of occurrence rankings are defined below.

1 - Known occurrence

- Recorded within the study area recently (i.e. within ten years)

3 - Moderate Likelihood

- Limited previous records of the species in the local vicinity; and/or,

- The study area contains poor or limited habitat.

5 – Unlikely

- No suitable habitat and/or outside the species range.

2 - High Likelihood

- Previous records of the species in the local vicinity; and/or, - The study area contains areas of high quality habitat.

4 - Low Likelihood

- Poor or limited habitat for the species however other evidence (such as a lack of records or environmental factors) indicates there is a very low likelihood of presence.

Scientific name Common name Total # of

documented records

Last documented

record EPBC FFG DEPI

Likely occurrence in study area

NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

Amphibromus fluitans River Swamp Wallaby-grass 3 1994 VU - - 5

Caladenia robinsonii Frankston Spider-orchid 1 1911 EN L e 5

Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily 1 2000 EN L e 4

Glycine latrobeana # Clover Glycine - - VU L v 4

Prasophyllum colemaniae # Lilac Leek-orchid - - VU - x 5

Prasophyllum frenchii Maroon Leek-orchid 1 1926 EN L e 5

Pterostylis cucullata # Leafy Greenhood - - VU L v 5

Senecio psilocarpus Swamp Fireweed 1 1982 VU - v 5

Thelymitra epipactoides Metallic Sun-orchid 1 1980 EN L e 5

Thesium australe Austral Toad-flax 1 1913 VU L v 5



documented records

Last documented



Xerochrysum palustre # Swamp Everlasting - - VU L v 5

STATE SIGNIFICANCE

Acacia howittii Sticky Wattle 2 1990 - - r

Austrostipa rudis subsp. australis Veined Spear-grass 2 1985 - - r 5

Burnettia cuneata Lizard Orchid 1 1887 - - r 5

Caesia parviflora var. minor Pale Grass-lily 1 1875 - - k 5

Caladenia aurantiaca Orange-tip Finger-orchid 2 1994 - - r 5

Caladenia australis Southern Spider-orchid 1 1943 - - k 5

Caladenia flavovirens Summer Spider-orchid 2 1980 - - r 5

Caladenia venusta Large White Spider-orchid 5 1941 - - r 5

Callitriche umbonata Winged Water-starwort 1 1910 - - r 5

Carex alsophila Forest Sedge 2 1980 - - r 5

Coronidium gunnianum Pale Swamp Everlasting 1 1994 - - v 5

Corunastylis ciliata Fringed Midge-orchid 6 1928 - - k 5

Corybas fimbriatus Fringed Helmet-orchid 1 1900 - - r 5

Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum 5 2011 - - v 1 (planted)

Craspedia canens Grey Billy-buttons 3 1993 - L e 5

Diuris behrii Golden Cowslips 1 1916 - - v 5

Diuris punctata Purple Diuris 3 1998 - L v 5

Eucalyptus fulgens Green Scentbark 2 2005 - - r 4

Eucalyptus X studleyensis Studley Park Gum 2 2001 - - e 4

Eucalyptus yarraensis Yarra Gum 15 2007 - - r 4



documented records

Last documented



Goodia pubescens Silky Golden-tip 1 1770 - - r 5

Grevillea rosmarinifolia Rosemary Grevillea 5 2009 - - P 1 (planted)

Lasiopetalum ferrugineum Rusty Velvet-bush 1 2005 - - P 5

Lastreopsis hispida Bristly Shield-fern 1 1882 - - r 5

Marsilea mutica Smooth Nardoo 1 1998 - - k 5

Melaleuca armillaris subsp. armillaris Giant Honey-myrtle 15 2011 - - r 1 (planted)

Olearia asterotricha Rough Daisy-bush 1 1770 - - r 5

Pteris comans Netted brake 1 1770 - - r 5

Pterostylis pedoglossa Prawn Greenhood 4 1931 - - v 5

Pterostylis X ingens Sharp Greenhood 3 1994 - - r 5

Sclerolaena muricata var. muricata Black Roly-poly 1 1987 - - k 5

Notes: EPBC = Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), FFG = Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act), DEPI = Advisory List of Threatened Flora in Victoria (DEPI 2014), L = Listed, # = Records identified from EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool, Data source: Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (DELWP 2016); Protected Matters Search Tool (DoE 2016). Order: Alphabetical.


Appendix 2.3 – Habitat Hectares

Table A2.3. Habitat Hectares results for remnant vegetation recorded within the study area.

Vegetation Zone 1 2 3

Bioregion GipP GipP GipP

EVC / Tree GW GW GW EVC Number

175 175 175

EVC Conservation Status En En En

Large Old Trees /10 0 0 0

Canopy Cover /5 0 0 5

Under storey /25 5 5 5

Lack of Weeds /15 9 9 9

Patch Recruitment /10 0 0 0

Condition Organic Matter /5 5 3 5

Logs /5 0 0 0

Treeless EVC Multiplier 1 1 1

Subtotal = 19 17 24

Landscape Value /25 1 1 1

Habitat Points /100 20 18 25 Habitat Score

0.2 0.18 0.25

Total Area (ha) 1.04 0.36 0.62

Area (ha) to be removed 1.04 0.36 0.62

Area (ha) to be retained 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total habitat hectares 0.21 0.07 0.16

Habitat hectares to be removed 0.21 0.07 0.16

Notes: GipP: Gippsland Plain; EVC: Ecological Vegetation Class; GW: Grassy Woodland; En: Endangered; Ha: Hectare.


Appendix 2.4 – Scattered Trees

Table A2.4. Remnant scattered trees recorded within the study area.

Tree number Species

1 Eucalyptus camaldulensis

2 Eucalyptus cephalocarpa s.l. (outside property boundary)

3 Eucalyptus cephalocarpa s.l.

4 Eucalyptus cephalocarpa s.l.


APPENDIX 3 - FAUNA

Appendix 3.1– Significant Fauna Species

Table A3.1. Significant fauna within 10 kilometres of the study area.

Likelihood: Habitat characteristics of significant fauna species previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area, or that may potentially occur within the study area were assessed to determine their likelihood of occurrence. The likelihood of occurrence rankings are defined below.

1 - High Likelihood - Known resident in the study area based on site observations, database records, or expert

advice; and/or, - Recent records (i.e. within five years) of the species in the local area (DELWP 2016); and/or, - The study area contains the species’ preferred habitat.

3 - Low Likelihood - The species is likely to visit the study area occasionally or opportunistically whilst en route

to more suitable sites; and/or, - There are only limited or historical records of the species in the local area (i.e. more than 20

years old); and/or, - The study area contains few or no characteristics of the species’ preferred habitat.

2 - Moderate Likelihood - The species is likely to visit the study area regularly (i.e. at least seasonally); and/or, - Previous records of the species in the local area (DELWP 2016); and/or, - The study area contains some characteristics of the species’ preferred habitat.

4 - Unlikely - No previous records of the species in the local area; and/or, - The species may fly over the study area when moving between areas of more suitable

habitat; and/or, - Out of the species’ range; and/or, - No suitable habitat present.

Common Name Scientific Name Last

Documented Record (VBA)

# Records (VBA)

EPBC Act

FFG ACT

DSE (2013)

National Action

Plan

Likely occurrence

in study area

NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

Spot-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus maculatus 1900 2 EN L EN VU 4

Southern Brown Bandicoot Isoodon obesulus obesulus 1990 37 EN L NT NT 4

Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus 2004 11 VU L VU VU 3

Smoky Mouse # Pseudomys fumeus - - EN L EN RA 4

Black-browed Albatross Thalassarche melanophris melanophris 1952 1 VU - VU NT 4

Northern Giant-Petrel Macronectes halli 1976 1 VU L NT - 4




# Records (VBA)

EPBC Act

FFG ACT

DSE (2013)

National Action

Plan

Likely occurrence

in study area

Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus 1994 6 EN L EN VU 4

Australian Painted Snipe Rostratula australis 2007 4 VU L CR VU 4

Fairy Tern Sternula nereis nereis 1975 1 VU L EN - 4

Superb Parrot Polytelis swainsonii 2000 1 VU L EN VU 4

Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor 2008 39 EN L EN EN 3

Regent Honeyeater Anthochaera phrygia 2001 20 CR L CR EN 4

Painted Honeyeater # Grantiella picta - - VU L VU NT 4

Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis 1999 11 VU L EN VU 4

Dwarf Galaxias Galaxiella pusilla 2009 26 VU L EN VU 4

Australian Grayling # Prototroctes maraena - - VU L VU VU 4

Bluenose Cod (Trout Cod) Maccullochella macquariensis 1890 1 EN L CR EN 4

Murray Cod Maccullochella peelii 1890 1 VU L VU - 4

Macquarie Perch Macquaria australasica 1938 2 EN L EN DD 4

Yarra Pygmy Perch # Nannoperca obscura - - VU L VU VU 4

Golden Sun Moth # Synemon plana - - CR L CR - 4

STATE SIGNIFICANCE

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat Saccolaimus flaviventris 1965 1 - L DD LC 4

King Quail Coturnix chinensis victoriae 1981 2 - L EN - 4

Magpie Goose Anseranas semipalmata 2007 12 - L NT - 4

Musk Duck Biziura lobata 2005 64 - - VU - 4

Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa 1994 1 - L EN - 4

Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis 2001 47 - - VU - 4




# Records (VBA)

EPBC Act

FFG ACT

DSE (2013)

National Action

Plan

Likely occurrence

in study area

Hardhead Aythya australis 2011 161 - - VU - 4

Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis 2008 110 - L EN - 4

White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus 2010 90 - - VU - 4

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus dubius 1994 2 - L EN - 4

Eastern Great Egret Ardea modesta 2006 165 - L VU - 4

Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia 1999 6 - L EN - 4

Little Egret Egretta garzetta nigripes 2006 12 - L EN - 4

White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster 1996 5 - L VU - 4

Grey Goshawk Accipiter novaehollandiae novaehollandiae 2008 4 - L VU - 3

Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucos 1994 1 - L EN NT 4

Black Falcon Falco subniger 1983 3 - - VU - 4

Lewin's Rail Lewinia pectoralis pectoralis 1982 4 - L VU NT 4

Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla palustris 2008 11 - L VU - 4

Major Mitchell's Cockatoo Lophocroa leadbeateri 2006 3 - L VU - 4

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 1979 6 - - VU - 4

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 1999 1 - - VU - 4

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 1999 1 - - VU - 4

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres 1976 1 - - VU - 4

Little Tern Sternula albifrons sinensis 1975 1 - L VU - 4

Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia 1998 8 - L NT - 4

Powerful Owl Ninox strenua 2008 27 - L VU - 3

Barking Owl Ninox connivens connivens 2005 4 - L EN NT 4




# Records (VBA)

EPBC Act

FFG ACT

DSE (2013)

National Action

Plan

Likely occurrence

in study area

Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa tenebricosa 2008 1 - L VU - 4

Brown Treecreeper (south-eastern ssp.) Climacteris picumnus victoriae 1994 1 - - NT NT 4

Chestnut-rumped Heathwren Calamanthus pyrrhopygius 1978 2 - L VU - 4

Speckled Warbler Chthonicola sagittatus 1998 10 - L VU NT 4

Grey-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus temporalis temporalis 1995 22 - L EN NT 4

Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata cucullata 1994 5 - L NT NT 4

Diamond Firetail Stagonopleura guttata 1994 3 - L NT NT 4

Murray Short-necked Turtle Emydura macquarii 2011 1 - - VU - 4

Lace Goanna Varanus varius 1977 1 - - EN - 4

Glossy Grass Skink Pseudemoia rawlinsoni 1994 2 - - VU - 4

Southern Toadlet Pseudophryne semimarmorata 2007 6 - - VU - 4

Southern Pygmy Perch Nannoperca australis 2009 39 - - - - 4

Foothill Burrowing Crayfish Engaeus victoriensis 1962 4 - - EN - 4

Tubercle Burrowing Crayfish Engaeus tuberculatus 1896 2 - - EN - 4

REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

Eastern Pygmy-possum Cercartetus nanus 1963 2 - - NT - 4

Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius 2001 86 - - NT - 4

Black-faced Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscescens 1977 2 - - NT - 4

Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus hillii 2001 56 - - NT - 4

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 1999 2 - - NT - 4

Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia 2008 67 - - NT - 4

Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis 1976 1 - - NT - 4




# Records (VBA)

EPBC Act

FFG ACT

DSE (2013)

National Action

Plan

Likely occurrence

in study area

Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii 2008 151 - - NT - 4

Sanderling Calidris alba 2001 1 - - NT - 4

Little Button-quail Turnix velox 1977 1 - - NT - 4

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus javanicus 2006 10 - - NT - 4

Pacific Gull Larus pacificus pacificus 2011 80 - - NT - 4

Black-eared Cuckoo Chrysococcyx osculans 1982 4 - - NT - 4

Azure Kingfisher Alcedo azurea 1998 6 - - NT - 4

Spotted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma punctatum 1896 2 - - NT - 4

Long-necked Turtle Chelodina longicollis 2011 11 - - DD - 4

Golden Perch Macquaria ambigua 1986 1 - - NT - 4

Notes: EPBC = Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), FFG = Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act), DSE = Advisory List of Threatened Flora in Victoria (DSE 2014), # = Records identified from EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool, L = Listed. Data sources: Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (DELWP 2016); Victorian Fauna Database (Viridans 2014b); Protected Matters Search Tool (DoE 2016). Taxonomic order: Mammals (Strahan 1995 in Menkhorst & Knight 2004); Birds (Christidis & Boles, 2008); Reptiles and Amphibians (Cogger et al. 1983 in Cogger 1996); Fish (Nelson 1994); Mussels & Crustaceans (Alphabetical); Invertebrates (Alphabetical).


APPENDIX 4

Appendix 4.1 – Biodiversity Impact and Offset Report (BIOR), DELWP

Biodiversity impact and offset requirements report

Page1

This report does not represent an assessment by DELWP of the proposed native vegetation

removal. It provides additional biodiversity information to support moderate and high risk-based

pathway applications for permits to remove native vegetation under clause 52.16 or 52.17 of

planning schemes in Victoria.

Date of issue: 06/04/2017 DELWP ref: EHP_0644

Time of issue: 11:02 am

Project ID EHP7865_Mulgrave

Summary of marked native vegetation

Risk-based pathway Moderate

Total extent 1.532 ha

Remnant patches 1.461 ha

Scattered trees 1 tree

Location risk A

Offset requirements if a permit is granted

If a permit is granted to remove the marked native vegetation, a requirement to obtain a native vegetation offset will be included in the permit conditions. The offset must meet the following requirements:

Offset type General offset

General offset amount (general

biodiversity equivalence units)

0.050 general units

General offset attributes

Vicinity Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority (CMA) or

Monash City Council

Minimum strategic biodiversity

score

0.0891

See Appendices 1 and 2 for details in how offset requirements were determined.

NB: values presented in tables throughout this document may not add to totals due to rounding

1 Minimum strategic biodiversity score is 80 per cent of the weighted average score across habitat zones where a general offset is required

Strategic biodiversity score of all

marked native vegetation

0.111


Page 2

Next steps

Any proposal to remove native vegetation must meet the application requirements of the moderate risk-based pathway and it

will be assessed under the moderate risk-based pathway.

If you wish to remove the marked native vegetation you are required to apply for a permit from your local council. Council will

then refer your application to DELWP for assessment, as required. This report is not a referral assessment by DELWP.

The biodiversity assessment report from NVIM and this biodiversity impact and offset report should be submitted with your

application for a permit to remove native vegetation you plan to remove, lop or destroy.

The Biodiversity assessment report generated by the tool within NVIM provides the following information:

The location of the site where native vegetation is to be removed.

The area of the patch of native vegetation and/or the number of any scattered trees to be removed.

Maps or plans containing information set out in the Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment

guidelines

The risk-based pathway of the application for a permit to remove native vegetation

This report provides the following information to meet application requirements for a permit to remove native vegetation:

Confirmation of the risk-based pathway of the application for a permit to remove native vegetation

The strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed

Information to inform the assessment of whether the proposed removal of native vegetation will have a significant impact on

Victoria’s biodiversity, with specific regard to the proportional impact on habitat for any rare or threatened species.

The offset requirements should a permit be granted to remove native vegetation.

Additional application requirements must be provided with an application for a permit to remove native vegetation in the

moderate or high risk-based pathways. These include:

A habitat hectare assessment report of the native vegetation that is to be removed

A statement outlining what steps have been taken to ensure that impacts on biodiversity from the removal of native

vegetation have been minimised

An offset strategy that details how a compliant offset will be secured to offset the biodiversity impacts of the removal of

native vegetation.

Refer to the Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines and for a full list and details of application requirements.

© The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Melbourne 2017 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. For more information contact the DELWP Customer Service Centre 136 186

Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. Obtaining this publication does not guarantee that an application will meet the requirements of clauses 52.16 or 52.17 of the Victoria Planning Provisions or that a permit to remove native vegetation will be granted. Notwithstanding anything else contained in this publication, you must ensure that you comply with all relevant laws, legislation, awards or orders and that you obtain and comply with all permits, approvals and the like that affect, are applicable or are necessary to undertake any action to remove, lop or destroy or otherwise deal with any native vegetation or that apply to matters within the scope of clauses 52.16 or 52.17 of the Victoria Planning Provisions.

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Appendix 1 – Biodiversity impact of removal of native vegetation

Habitat hectares

Habitat hectares are calculated for each habitat zone within your proposal using the extent and condition scores in the GIS data you provided.

Habitat zone Site assessed condition

score Extent (ha) Habitat hectares

1-1-A 0.200 0.002 0.000

2-2-A 0.200 0.292 0.058

3-3-A 0.200 0.015 0.003

4-4-A 0.200 0.005 0.001

5-5-A 0.200 0.007 0.001

6-6-A 0.200 0.010 0.002

7-7-A 0.200 0.010 0.002

8-8-A 0.200 0.045 0.009

9-9-A 0.200 0.448 0.090

10-10-A 0.200 0.080 0.016

11-11-A 0.200 0.062 0.012

12-12-A 0.200 0.047 0.009

13-13-A 0.200 0.024 0.005

14-14-A 0.200 0.010 0.002

15-15-A 0.200 0.006 0.001

16-16-A 0.200 0.016 0.003

17-17-A 0.200 0.002 0.000

18-18-A 0.200 0.012 0.002

19-19-A 0.200 0.007 0.001

20-20-B 0.180 0.211 0.038

21-21-B 0.180 0.062 0.011

22-22-B 0.180 0.089 0.016

23-1-C 0.200 0.070 0.014

TOTAL 0.299

Impacts on rare or threatened species habitat above specific offset threshold The specific-general offset test was applied to your proposal. The test determines if the proposed removal of native vegetation has a proportional impact on any rare or threatened species habitats above the specific offset threshold. The threshold is set at 0.005 per cent of the total habitat for a species. When the proportional impact is above the specific offset threshold a specific offset for that species’ habitat is required.

The specific-general offset test found your proposal does not have a proportional impact on any rare or threatened species’ habitats above the specific offset threshold. No specific offsets are required. A general offset is required as set out below.


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Clearing site biodiversity equivalence score(s) The general biodiversity equivalence score for the habitat zone(s) is calculated by multiplying the habitat hectares by the strategic biodiversity score.

Habitat zone Habitat hectares Proportion of

habitat zone with general offset

Strategic biodiversity score

General biodiversity equivalence score

(GBES)

1-1-A 0.000 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

2-2-A 0.058 100.000 % 0.113 0.007

3-3-A 0.003 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

4-4-A 0.001 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

5-5-A 0.001 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

6-6-A 0.002 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

7-7-A 0.002 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

8-8-A 0.009 100.000 % 0.100 0.001

9-9-A 0.090 100.000 % 0.100 0.009

10-10-A 0.016 100.000 % 0.100 0.002

11-11-A 0.012 100.000 % 0.100 0.001

12-12-A 0.009 100.000 % 0.100 0.001

13-13-A 0.005 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

14-14-A 0.002 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

15-15-A 0.001 100.000 % 0.123 0.000

16-16-A 0.003 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

17-17-A 0.000 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

18-18-A 0.002 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

19-19-A 0.001 100.000 % 0.100 0.000

20-20-B 0.038 100.000 % 0.138 0.005

21-21-B 0.011 100.000 % 0.152 0.002

22-22-B 0.016 100.000 % 0.119 0.002

23-1-C 0.014 100.000 % 0.100 0.001

Mapped rare or threatened species’ habitats on site

There are no rare or threatened species’ habitats mapped at the site.


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Appendix 2 – Offset requirements detail

If a permit is granted to remove the marked native vegetation the permit condition will include the requirement to obtain a native vegetation offset. To calculate the required offset amount required the biodiversity equivalence scores are aggregated to the proposal level and multiplied by the relevant risk multiplier. Offsets also have required attributes:

General offsets must be located in the same Catchment Management Authority (CMA) boundary or Local Municipal District (local council) as the clearing and must have a minimum strategic biodiversity score of 80 per cent of the clearing.

2

The offset requirements for your proposal are as follows:

Offset

type

Clearing site biodiversity equivalence

score

Risk multiplier

Offset requirements

Offset amount (biodiversity

equivalence units) Offset attributes

General 0.033 GBES 1.5 0.050 general units

Offset must be within Port Phillip And Westernport CMA or Monash City Council

Offset must have a minimum strategic biodiversity score of 0.089

2 Strategic biodiversity score is a weighted average across habitat zones where a general offset is required


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Appendix 3 – Images of marked native vegetation

1. Native vegetation location risk map

2. Strategic biodiversity score map


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3. Aerial photograph showing marked native vegetation


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Glossary

Condition score This is the site-assessed condition score for the native vegetation. Each habitat zone in the

clearing proposal is assigned a condition score according to the habitat hectare assessment

method. This information has been provided by or on behalf of the applicant in the GIS file.

Dispersed habitat A dispersed species habitat is a habitat for a rare or threatened species whose habitat is

spread over a relatively broad geographic area greater than 2,000 hectares.

General biodiversity

equivalence score

𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

= 𝒉𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 × 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

The general biodiversity equivalence score quantifies the relative overall contribution that the

native vegetation to be removed makes to Victoria’s biodiversity. The general biodiversity

equivalence score is calculated as follows:

General offset amount

𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒌 𝒂𝒅𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

= 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 × 𝟏. 𝟓

This is calculated by multiplying the general biodiversity equivalence score of the native

vegetation to be removed by the risk factor for general offsets. This number is expressed in

general biodiversity equivalence units and is the amount of offset that is required to be

provided should the application be approved. This offset requirement will be a condition to the

permit for the removal of native vegetation.

General offset attributes General offset must be located in the same Catchment Management Authority boundary or

Municipal District (local council) as the clearing site. They must also have a strategic

biodiversity score that is at least 80 per cent of the score of the clearing site.

Habitat hectares

𝑯𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 = 𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 (𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔) × 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

Habitat hectares is a site-based measure that combines extent and condition of native

vegetation. The habitat hectares of native vegetation is equal to the current condition of the

vegetation (condition score) multiplied by the extent of native vegetation. Habitat hectares can

be calculated for a remnant patch or for scattered trees or a combination of these two

vegetation types. This value is calculated for each habitat zone using the following formula:

Habitat importance score The habitat importance score is a measure of the importance of the habitat located on a site

for a particular rare or threatened species. The habitat importance score for a species is a

weighted average value calculated from the habitat importance map for that species. The

habitat importance score is calculated for each habitat zone where the habitat importace map

indicates that species habitat occurs.

Habitat zone Habitat zone is a discrete contiguous area of native vegetation that:

is of a single Ecological Vegetation Class

has the same measured condition.


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Highly localised habitat A highly localised habitat is habitat for a rare or threatened species that is spread across a

very restricted area (less than 2,000 hectares). This can also be applied to a similarly limited

sub-habitat that is disproportionately important for a wide-ranging rare or threatened species.

Highly localised habitats have the highest habitat importance score (1) for all locations where

they are present.

Minimum strategic

biodiversity score

The minimum strategic biodiversity score is an attribute for a general offset.

The strategic biodiversity score of the offset site must be at least 80 per cent of the strategic

biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed. This is to ensure offsets are located

in areas with a strategic value that is comparable to, or better than, the native vegetation to be

removed. Where a specific and general offset is required, the minimum strategic biodiversity

score relates only to the habitat zones that require the general offset.

Offset risk factor

𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒌 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒔 = 𝟏. 𝟓

𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒌 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒔𝒆𝒕 = 𝟐

There is a risk that the gain from undertaking the offset will not adequately compensate for the

loss from the removal of native vegetation. If this were to occur, despite obtaining an offset, the

overall impact from removing native vegetation would result in a loss in the contribution that

native vegetation makes to Victoria’s biodiversity.

To address the risk of offsets failing, an offset risk factor is applied to the calculated loss to

biodiversity value from removing native vegetation.

Offset type

The specific-general offset test determines the offset type required.

When the specific-general offset test determines that the native vegetation removal will have

an impact on one or more rare or threatened species habitat above the set threshold of 0.005

per cent, a specific offset is required. This test is done at the permit application level.

A general offset is required when a proposal to remove native vegetation is not deemed, by

application of the specific-general offset test, to have an impact on any habitat for any rare or

threatened species above the set threshold of 0.005 per cent. All habitat zones that do not

require a specific offset will require a general offset.

Proportional impact on

species

This is the outcome of the specific-general offset test. The specific-general offset test is

calculated across the entire proposal for each species on the native vegetation permitted

clearing species list. If the proportional impact on a species is above the set threshold of

0.005 per cent then a specific offset is required for that species.

Specific offset amount

𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒌 𝒂𝒅𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

= 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 × 𝟐

The specific offset amount is calculated by multiplying the specific biodiversity equivalence

score of the native vegetation to be removed by the risk factor for specific offsets. This number

is expressed in specific biodiversity equivalence units and is the amount of offset that is

required to be provided should the application be approved. This offset requirement will be a

condition to the permit for the removal of native vegetation.


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Specific offset attributes Specific offsets must be located in the modelled habitat for the species that has triggered the

specific offset requirement.

Specific biodiversity

equivalence score

𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

= 𝒉𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 × 𝒉𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆

The specific biodiversity equivalence score quantifies the relative overall contribution that the

native vegetation to be removed makes to the habitat of the relevant rare or threatened

species. It is calculated for each habitat zone where one or more species habitats require a

specific offset as a result of the specific-general offset test as follows:

Strategic biodiversity

score

This is the weighted average strategic biodiversity score of the marked native vegetation. The

strategic biodiversity score has been calculated from the Strategic biodiversity map for each

habitat zone.

The strategic biodiversity score of native vegetation is a measure of the native vegetation’s

importance for Victoria’s biodiversity, relative to other locations across the landscape. The

Strategic biodiversity map is a modelled layer that prioritises locations on the basis of rarity

and level of depletion of the types of vegetation, species habitats, and condition and

connectivity of native vegetation.

Total extent (hectares)

for calculating habitat

hectares

This is the total area of the marked native vegetation in hectares.

The total extent of native vegetation is an input to calculating the habitat hectares of a site and

in calculating the general biodiversity equivalence score. Where the marked native vegetation

includes scattered trees, each tree is converted to hectares using a standard area calculation

of 0.071 hectares per tree. This information has been provided by or on behalf of the applicant

in the GIS file.

Vicinity

The vicinity is an attribute for a general offset.

The offset site must be located within the same Catchment Management Authority boundary or

Local Municipal District as the native vegetation to be removed.

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