2023-08-22
Today, the ACT Government will announce the new ‘Caring for Dhawura Ngunnawal: A Natural Resource Plan for the ACT 2022-2042’ which will guide the next 20 years of natural resource management in the ACT.
Minister for the Environment Rebecca Vassarotti said the plan will improve connections between people and the landscape, while setting out clear actions and targets for the ACT to meet and adapt to a changing climate.
"We’re in a climate crisis and this strategy equips the ACT to boldly tackle future challenges and the mounting pressures on our invaluable natural assets—our land, water, soil, plants, and animals,” Minister Vassarotti said.
“The plan focuses on a wide range of environmental areas that need to be addressed, from biodiversity conversation and ecosystem functions to sustainable agriculture.
“It is supported by the best available science, including traditional and cultural knowledge. The plan was developed in partnership with the Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee, acknowledging that First Nations knowledge, experience and values are integral to the way we manage our resources far into the future.
“There were two rounds of consultation with the ACT community, which showed overwhelming support for this plan. Over 95 per cent indicated in last year’s survey that the plan met or exceeded their expectations, showcasing how passionate Canberrans are for our natural landscape.
“Managing our natural resources is a shared responsibility, and the community’s input to the plan is just the beginning of our collaboration to nurture the natural resource plan to be successful over the next twenty years.”
For more information or to read Caring for Dhawura Ngunnawal: A Natural Resource Plan for the ACT 2022-2042, visit the ACT Environment website.
Quotes attributable to Professor Jamie Pittock, Independent Chair, ACT Natural Resources Management Advisory Committee:
“Canberrans are passionate for conserving the environment of our bush capital. For instance, there are now nearly 140 volunteer groups conserving our urban and nature parks across our city.
“Volunteers are making a huge difference conserving our flora, fauna, soils and waterways to support the well-being of people and nature.
“This new plan provides a critical guide for investment by the Commonwealth and ACT governments and channels the enthusiasm of Canberrans to restore and protect our lands, waters and bushland.”