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Abstract
The Queensland Government Environmental Offsets Policy provides an overarching
framework for environmental offsets in Queensland. The policy provides a consistent and
transparent approach to the use of offsets. It contains principles and guidelines for
developing and applying more detailed ‘specific-issue’ policies for offsetting important
environmental values such as vegetation or fish habitats.
Currently, offsets use in Queensland can be characterised as a compliance mechanism as
they are required to meet development conditions. Developers will face higher costs if they
need an offset and this provides a greater incentive to avoid and minimise impacts on areas
with significant environmental values. The paper canvasses opportunities to now move to
develop efficient offset markets in Queensland.