Strategic Offset Policy and Biodiversity Offset Guidelines · Report

ORDINARY MEETING                                                             17 SEPTEMBER 2026


The framework also provides greater transparency and alignment in how biodiversity offsets are
developed, approved (by State and Commonwealth) and managed by Council. This is expected to
improve community confidence that unavoidable environmental impacts are being addressed
through a clear governance framework that prioritises avoidance and mitigation before offsetting is
considered.


Overall, the Biodiversity Offsets Framework is expected to deliver a net positive community outcome
by keeping and delivering biodiversity offset investment within Noosa where Council has generated
the offset, supporting local conservation outcomes, and providing a transparent and accountable
framework for managing unavoidable environmental impacts, while recognising there may be some
costs and community concerns associated with the implementation of biodiversity offset programs.

Below is a summary table of key benefits and challenges:
Potential Benefits (Pros)                        Comment
Greater retention of funding and                 The policy prioritises delivery of offsets locally,
environmental investment within Noosa            meaning offset funding can be directed into
Shire.                                           habitat restoration, environmental management
                                                 and conservation projects within Noosa rather
                                                 than outside the local government area.
Retention and enhancement of biodiversity        Local delivery ensures offset outcomes directly
values within the shire.                         contribute to Noosa's biodiversity, ecological
                                                 connectivity and environmental resilience rather
                                                 than benefiting other regions.
Supports Council's Environment Strategy          Includes no net loss of ecosystem values,
targets.                                         improved habitat connectivity and protection of
                                                 threatened species.
Creates local employment opportunities.          Retention of Council’s funds in the Shire and the
                                                 attraction of third party offset funding into the
                                                 Shire for restoration, revegetation, ecological
                                                 monitoring, bush regeneration and environmental
                                                 consulting work is likely to support local
                                                 contractors and environmental service providers.
Provides a transparent and consistent            Council Departments, Project Officers,
decision-making framework.                       Community members and stakeholders can
                                                 better understand how offset decisions are made
                                                 within Council and how funds are managed.
Increases Council's ability to attract third-    State agencies and approved proponents may
party offset investment.                         invest in local conservation projects through
                                                 Council-managed offset sites due to clear and
                                                 consistent policy.
Supports future conservation land                Land-use compensation payments associated
acquisition.                                     with third-party offsets may contribute to
                                                 acquisition and protection of strategically
                                                 important conservation land.
Strengthens Noosa's reputation as an             The framework reflects emerging best practice
environmental leader.                            and demonstrates a commitment to measurable
                                                 biodiversity outcomes and nature-positive
                                                 principles.