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Darwin Harbour Review
Darwin Harbour Review
On 26 November 2010, the EPA released the Final Report of its review Ecologically Sustainable Development in the Darwin Harbour Region – Review of Governance Frameworks. An Executive Summary of the final advice of the review was also released.
The Darwin Harbour region is a jewel in the Territory’s crown, developmentally, economically, recreationally, environmentally. It is appropriate for the EPA to consider and examine this precious resource from the perspective of ecologically sustainable development (ESD) to guide future decision-making for Darwin Harbour.
Protecting the environment of the Darwin Harbour region requires a strong foundation of good governance based on the principles of ecologically sustainable development. These principles recognise that our economic and social progress depends on the basic services provided by a healthy environment.
The aim of this report is to investigate whether existing governance frameworks (set out in legislation, policies and plans) are adequate to support ESD in the region.
A specific focus of the terms of reference for the review was the Darwin Harbour Strategy launched in June 2010 by the Darwin Harbour Advisory Committee (previously referred to as Draft Darwin Harbour Regional Management Strategic Framework 2009-2013).
The terms of reference for the review were to:
- Examine the existing governance frameworks for promoting ESD in the Darwin Harbour region
- Determine if and where ESD is defined in legislation, policies and plans applying to the region
- Identify the key government agencies and regulatory bodies with responsibilities for the region
- Identify processes for promoting integration in planning, decision-making and environmental management
- Examine provisions for community input and public participation
- Provide advice to the government and community of the Northern Territory on the adequacy of existing systems and processes
The review is intended to provide the basis for further discussion with government and the community by presenting an analysis of the existing key policies and legislation that currently apply to decision making for Darwin Harbour and the ways in which these are informed by and reflect the principles of ESD.
It is intened as the begining of a conversation with the community and government about the legislative and policy changes that are required to support best-practice sustainablity outcomes in the Darwin Harbour region.