The 2019-20 bushfire season was devastating for people and biodiversity in NSW. More than 2,000 homes were lost, 38% of the national park estate was burnt and 55 national parks had more than 99% of their area affected by fire.
8.1 Repeal the Rural Boundary Clearing Code
The Rural Boundary Clearing Code threatens thousands of hectares of wildlife habitat by allowing landholders to clear 25m strips of vegetation along their boundaries.
8.2 Revoke Ignition Management Zones to protect ecosystems
The NSW Government’s new Ignition Management Zones (IMZs) pose significant risk to sensitive ecosystems by mandating ineffective and ecologically harmful hazard reduction on ridgetops in national parks.
8.3 Prioritise protection of environmental and cultural assets
Recognising cultural and environmental assets in local bushfire management plans by creating a new category of protection for Assets of Intergenerational Significance for special protection was a positive move. The conservation movement applauds the initiative and urges the NSW Government to extend these new protections to all threatened species and ecological communities.
8.4 Elevate the role of community engagement
The Bushfire Inquiry Report recognises the value of well-informed and well-prepared communities to complement the role of land managers and fire agencies.
8.5 Adequately resource rapid bushfire suppression
Suppressing bushfires soon after ignition significantly reduces risk to life and property, and minimises the loss of environmental and cultural assets.