Introductory note. This Part deals with the licensing by the Director-General of actions that are likely to result in:

(a)  the harming of an animal that is of, or part of, a threatened species, population or ecological community, or

(b)  the picking of a plant that is of, or part of, a threatened species, population or ecological community, or

(c)  damage to critical habitat, or

(d)  damage to habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community.

The offences relating to the above actions are set out in the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

This Part also contains provisions about species impact statements. These statements are employed to measure the significance of the effect of actions on threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats. A species impact statement must be lodged with an application for a licence under this Part if the Director-General determines that the action proposed is likely to significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats.

Division 1 deals with the grant of licences, including the making of applications, fees, determinations as to whether actions proposed will significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities, publication of applications and the making of submissions concerning them, and matters that the Director-General must take into account before granting licences and appeals.

Division 2 deals with the form and content of species impact statements and the notification of the Director-General’s requirements as to their preparation.

Division 3 sets out exceptions to licensing requirements.

Division 4 sets out miscellaneous provisions.