As Australia works towards a clean energy future, large-scale solar farms are becoming one of the most important tools in the renewable energy toolbox. These facilities not only support our national decarbonisation targets, as well as help to strengthen regional economies and reduce electricity costs. But behind every successful solar farm is a carefully planned and well-managed construction process.
This article explains how solar farms are built, the environmental impact they can have, and how AES (Applied Environment & Safety) supports projects across Australia to ensure success.
AES works with developers, contractors, and regulators to make sure solar farms are planned and constructed responsibly. We focus on reducing risks, staying compliant with all laws, and protecting the environment. We are proud to support Australia’s transition to renewable energy with safe, practical, and sustainable construction practices.
What Is Solar Farm Construction?
Solar farm construction refers to the process of building large-scale facilities that convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels. These farms range from 5 MW community projects to massive 300 MW+ sites powering entire regions.
The process involves more than just placing solar panels in a field. It includes land preparation, environmental approvals, mechanical and electrical work, safety planning, and grid connection.
Solar farm construction usually takes between 6 and 18 months, depending on the project size, site conditions, and compliance requirements.
Key Phases of Construction
1. Planning and Site Assessment
Before construction begins, developers must:
Secure land agreements and assess the site
Conduct feasibility and grid connection studies
Prepare detailed environmental assessments and management plans
AES supports this stage by:
Assessing the site’s environmental values and risks
Preparing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) or other approval requirements
Conducting ecological and cultural heritage surveys
Mapping bushfire, erosion, and flood risk zones
We follow guidelines from local, state and national regulatory bodies.
2. Civil Works and Land Preparation
This step includes:
Clearing vegetation (minimised wherever possible)
Levelling the land
Building internal roads, drainage, and fencing
Installing erosion and sediment controls
AES ensures all civil works align with approvals and permits as well as best practice environmental guidelines.
We also help developers prepare Soil and Water Management Plans to prevent runoff into nearby creeks or wetlands.
3. Mechanical and Electrical Installation
Here, construction teams:
Install solar tracking structures
Mount PV panels
Lay underground cables
Install inverters, transformers, and switchgear
AES helps ensure infrastructure is designed with minimal environmental impacts.
4. Testing and Commissioning
Once installation is complete:
Systems are tested for output, efficiency, and safety
Rehabilition is implemented
Site is reviewed for environmental compliance
AES conducts post-construction audits to ensure rehabilitation measures are complete and any waste materials have been removed responsibly.
Environmental Impact and Risk Management
Solar farms offer long-term environmental benefits through clean power generation, but construction can still present short-term risks if not managed properly.
Common risks include:
Habitat loss
Soil disturbance and erosion
Introduction of invasive species
Waterway contamination from runoff
Waste materials from packaging, fuel, and construction debris
AES works to reduce these risks through detailed plans and on-site support. Our key services include:
Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP)
Weed and Biosecurity Plans
Waste Management Plans
Flora and Fauna Management Plans
We follow best practice guidance from national bodies like the Clean Energy Council and state-based environment departments. Our team also includes Certified Environmental Practitioners (CEnvP), a recognised industry accreditation.
Supporting Renewable Energy Growth
Solar farm construction plays a crucial role in Australia’s renewable energy expansion. These projects:
Add significant capacity to the national electricity grid
Reduce emissions from coal-fired power plants
Lower wholesale electricity prices
Create regional jobs and investment
As of 2024, Australia has over 6.2 GW of operational utility-scale solar and more than 15 GW in the pipeline (source: OpenNEM). Construction is the bridge between policy targets and actual renewable energy generation.
AES is proud to support this growth. We’ve contributed to five large-scale solar projects and continue to work across QLD, NSW, VIC, and SA.
Compliance and Regulatory Approvals
Construction must align with multiple legal frameworks, including:
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC)
State planning laws and SEPPs (e.g. in NSW and QLD)
Cultural heritage acts
Local government regulations
AES guides developers through these processes to ensure:
Timely submission of planning documents
Clear documentation for regulators
Minimal delays or objections from stakeholders
We’ve successfully delivered EPBC referrals and self-assessments for both standalone solar farms and hybrid BESS installations.
Reducing Waste and Promoting Circular Practices
Construction produces waste, from packaging, timber, and pallets to scrap metal and electrical materials. If unmanaged, this can harm the local environment and increase landfill pressure.
AES helps implement sustainable waste strategies, such as:
On-site sorting and recycling
Responsible disposal of hazardous materials
Repurposing of construction waste where possible
We also support “design for disassembly” principles, making it easier to recycle components when solar farms are decommissioned.
Long-Term Site Stewardship
Good solar farm construction doesn’t stop at energisation. Developers must plan for:
Ongoing vegetation management
Soil restoration
Firebreak maintenance
Regular environmental inspections
AES supports these tasks through:
Post-construction environmental audits
Rehabilitation plans
End-of-life decommissioning frameworks
Our approach ensures that projects remain sustainable over the long term and maintain their license to operate.
Why choose AES to reduce your impact on the Environment?
AES is a trusted partner in Australia’s solar energy transition. We bring:
Certified environmental scientists and planners
Deep experience across regional and urban projects
Practical advice tailored to local conditions
A collaborative, solutions-focused approach
We are members of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) and work in line with ISO 14001 environmental management standards.
Whether you’re constructing your first 10 MW site or your fifth 300 MW solar farm, we’ll help you deliver it cleanly, compliantly, and confidently.
Solar farms are large-scale renewable energy facilities designed to generate electricity from sunlight using photovoltaic (PV) systems. These utility-scale installations play a critical role in advancing Australia’s transition to clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Solar farms are also known as solar power stations or solar energy projects and are significantly larger than rooftop solar panel systems.
At Applied Environment & Safety (AES), we collaborate with solar developers to ensure their projects are environmentally responsible, compliant with local and national regulations, and designed for long-term success. In this article, we offer a complete guide to solar farms – what they are, how they work, where they’re built, and how AES supports the entire project lifecycle.
What Is a Solar Farm?
A solar farm is a large energy-producing facility that uses rows of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. These projects are built on open land, often spanning tens to hundreds of hectares, and are designed to supply electricity to the public grid.
Solar farms are commonly divided into two categories:
Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Farms: These are the most common type and use PV systems to convert sunlight directly into electricity.
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): Less common in Australia, CSP farms use mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight, creating heat to power a steam turbine.
Most of the solar farms in Australia are PV-based due to cost-efficiency and scalability. The solar panels are mounted on ground-based racks or tracking systems that follow the sun to maximise electricity generation. Inverters convert the generated direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) so it can be fed into the electricity grid.
These installations contribute to power generation at the regional and national levels, and they support Australia’s broader renewable energy targets. Solar farms have quickly become one of the most affordable forms of new electricity generation, helping to decarbonise Australia’s energy sector.
How Do Solar Farms Work?
Solar farms operate through a multi-stage process that transforms sunlight into usable energy distributed through the electricity grid. These projects are designed not only for efficiency but also for long-term integration into Australia’s energy infrastructure. Their operation includes both passive and active technological systems, storage, and sophisticated grid coordination mechanisms.
Solar Energy Collection
Photovoltaic (PV) panels capture solar radiation and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. The solar panels used are generally made from silicon and are designed to absorb as much light as possible, even in overcast conditions.
Inversion
Inverters are essential components that convert the DC electricity generated by PV systems into alternating current (AC), the form used by the electricity grid. These inverters can be centralised or distributed throughout the solar farm depending on the system’s design.
Voltage Transformation
After inversion, the AC electricity may go through voltage transformation via transformers, preparing it for efficient transmission across long distances through the grid infrastructure.
Energy Storage (Optional but Increasingly Common)
Many modern solar energy projects include Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) that store surplus electricity. These systems allow energy to be dispatched during periods of low sunlight, evening peaks, or grid instability, which improves the reliability and commercial value of solar energy.
Grid Connection and Energy Export
Once the electricity is converted and conditioned, it is fed into substations and then to the broader electricity grid. This electricity powers homes, businesses, and industrial sites. Utility companies often monitor and control the input to ensure grid stability.
Data Monitoring and Optimisation
Solar farms are typically equipped with remote monitoring systems and IoT-enabled devices that track energy production, weather patterns, panel performance, and system health. This data is used to optimise output and schedule maintenance proactively.
Solar farms may also be paired with complementary technologies such as wind power or hydro storage to create hybrid systems. These arrangements help stabilise the grid by compensating for solar’s natural intermittency. Additionally, many solar projects incorporate predictive analytics powered by AI and machine learning to forecast energy generation and demand, improving both operational efficiency and financial returns.
Tracking systems are another key part of how solar farms function. Single-axis tracking systems move panels east to west across the day, while dual-axis systems also adjust the tilt angle based on seasonal sun elevation. These systems can increase output by 15–25% compared to fixed mounts.
In summary, solar farms rely on advanced hardware, digital tools, and robust grid integration to function as reliable and scalable sources of clean electricity. The combination of photovoltaic technology, energy storage, and smart controls makes them increasingly viable as base-load energy contributors in Australia’s evolving energy mix.
How Many Solar Farms Are There in Australia?
Australia’s solar energy industry has experienced exponential growth in the past decade, fuelled by favourable climate conditions, policy support, and rapid technological innovation. As of early 2024, there are over 150 operational utility-scale solar farms across the country, with dozens more in construction or undergoing planning and approvals.
According to the Clean Energy Council’s 2024 Annual Report, solar energy is now the leading source of new electricity generation in Australia, accounting for 36% of all large-scale renewable energy generation. Large-scale solar farms are complemented by Australia’s world-leading rooftop solar uptake, which together have made solar the dominant renewable energy source in the country.
Key statistics include:
Queensland: The state leads the nation with over 130 utility-scale solar projects greater than 1 MW capacity, representing nearly one-third of the country’s total solar generation capacity. The Queensland Renewable Energy Zones (QREZ) initiative continues to unlock new project opportunities.
New South Wales & Victoria: Both states have invested heavily in solar infrastructure as part of their energy transition strategies. NSW currently has over 50 operating large-scale solar farms, with many more approved or under construction. Victoria’s VRET2 reverse auction has further incentivised clean energy development.
National Capacity: According to OpenNEM, Australia’s total large-scale solar capacity exceeds 6.2 GW, not including rooftop systems. Utility-scale output continues to climb year-over-year as more projects come online.
Solar farm developments are concentrated in regions with:
High average solar radiation (e.g. inland Queensland and NSW)
Low population density
Access to existing transmission infrastructure
Previously cleared or degraded agricultural land
A growing number of solar projects are being developed as hybrid energy hubs, where solar generation is co-located with wind farms, battery storage (BESS), or even green hydrogen facilities. These co-located projects improve grid reliability and offer economic efficiencies by sharing infrastructure and balancing generation profiles.
The pipeline remains strong: the Clean Energy Regulator reports more than 15 GW of large-scale solar generation is either committed or proposed nationally. This indicates that Australia’s solar fleet is not only extensive – it is still in an aggressive growth phase.
Where Are Solar Farms Built?
Australia’s geography makes it ideal for large-scale solar projects. Most solar farms are built in rural or semi-arid areas with high solar exposure and ample open land.
Preferred locations include:
Western Queensland
Inland New South Wales
South Australia’s Riverland and Eyre Peninsula
Northern Victoria
Site selection factors include:
High average solar radiation
Proximity to transmission lines
Minimal slope and shading
Previously disturbed or degraded land
Biodiversity sensitivity and proximity to ecologically significant areas
Many projects make use of former grazing or agricultural land. These sites are often less environmentally sensitive and can benefit from rehabilitation programs integrated into the solar development.
Australia is home to several impressive solar power plants, with the Western Downs Green Power Hub currently holding the title of the nation’s largest operational solar farm.
Western Downs Green Power Hub
Location: Near Chinchilla, Queensland
Commissioned: 2023
Size: 1,500 hectares
Infrastructure: Over 1 million solar panels
Output: 1,080 GWh annually (enough to power ~235,000 homes)
Storage: 540 MW / 1,080 MWh battery energy storage
Land Use: Sheep grazing beneath arrays
This project demonstrates how solar power stations can integrate clean energy production with agriculture and biodiversity goals. The use of battery storage also makes this one of the most resilient solar projects in the country.
Other notable large-scale solar farms include:
Limondale Solar Farm (NSW)
Darling Downs Solar Farm (QLD)
Bungala Solar Farm (SA)
Numurkah Solar Farm (VIC)
These installations show the scalability of solar energy and its potential to replace coal-fired power generation.
Environmental Considerations in Solar Development
While solar farms are environmentally friendly in operation – producing no direct emissions or air pollutants – careful, site-specific planning is essential to mitigate unintended impacts on land, water, flora, fauna, and local communities. Poorly sited or managed solar projects can disrupt habitats, contribute to erosion, or conflict with land uses such as agriculture or conservation areas.
At AES, we work closely with developers and project stakeholders to embed sustainability into every phase of solar project development. This means more than simply ticking boxes for compliance—we deliver proactive environmental management strategies that reduce risks, accelerate approvals, and ensure long-term site resilience.
Our services include:
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)
Comprehensive studies evaluating the potential environmental effects of a proposed solar development. These assessments form the foundation for regulatory approval and stakeholder consultation.
EPBC Act Referrals and Self-Assessments
Guidance through Australia’s national environmental law, assessing project impacts on Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) such as threatened species or ecological communities.
Cultural Heritage Management
Engagement with Traditional Owners and cultural heritage consultants to identify and protect significant sites in accordance with Indigenous and statutory frameworks.
Species Management Programs
Detailed assessments and mitigation strategies to protect native wildlife, including habitat preservation, relocation plans, and monitoring protocols.
Soil and Water Management Plans
Erosion control, stormwater drainage, sediment management, and soil rehabilitation strategies tailored to specific site conditions.
Biosecurity and Weed Management Plans
Measures to prevent the spread of invasive plant species and pathogens during construction and operation.
Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP)
Implementation tools that guide contractors through environmental controls, legal requirements, and best practices during the build phase.
End-of-life Decommissioning and Rehabilitation Plans
Frameworks for removing infrastructure, restoring the landscape, and meeting post-closure environmental commitments.
We also provide:
Strategic advice on biodiversity offsets to compensate for unavoidable environmental impacts.
Design of native vegetation buffers that enhance local biodiversity and screen infrastructure from nearby landholders.
Erosion and sediment control plans using hydrological modelling and on-site risk assessments.
Our integrated approach ensures that solar projects do more than avoid harm – they can contribute positively to ecological connectivity, land restoration, and community trust. From the Fraser Coast to the Northern Tablelands, AES helps developers deliver renewable energy infrastructure that meets both energy and environmental goals.
Case Study: Fraser Coast Solar Farm
AES is currently supporting the development of the Fraser Coast Solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project, a 290 MW utility-scale solar farm located near Teebar Creek in Queensland’s Fraser Coast region. This landmark project includes a co-located BESS facility designed to provide consistent electricity supply, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and improve grid reliability across the region.
The Fraser Coast project plays a key role in advancing Queensland’s renewable energy pipeline and aligns with state and federal clean energy targets. It also highlights how renewable infrastructure can be successfully integrated into agricultural and regional settings with minimal ecological disturbance.
AES’s role in the project includes:
Site suitability assessment and early-phase planning: Evaluating land conditions, solar exposure, access to transmission infrastructure, and constraints related to biodiversity, cultural heritage, and slope.
Coordination of ecological surveys: Leading a comprehensive fieldwork program that included targeted flora and fauna surveys, assessments of threatened ecological communities (TECs), invasive species mapping, and nocturnal monitoring to inform impact mitigation strategies.
Management plan development: Drafting a suite of tailored environmental management plans, including:
Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)
Rehabilitation Management Plan
Soil and Water Management Plan
Weed Management Plan
Biosecurity Management Plan
Flora and Fauna Management Plan
Cultural Heritage Evaluation
Bushfire risk assessment: Identifying and modelling bushfire hazards, recommending buffer zones, firebreaks, and on-site response measures that align with Queensland’s construction and operational codes.
Hydrology analysis: Evaluating surface water flow paths, drainage impacts, and erosion risks using modelling to design low-impact water management systems that minimise soil disturbance and downstream effects.
EPBC Act referral preparation: Conducting a self-assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, evaluating the potential impacts on Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES), including habitat for threatened species, wetlands, and migratory species.
AES’s multidisciplinary approach has ensured that the Fraser Coast Solar Farm has progressed efficiently through development approvals while maintaining a high standard of environmental performance. The project is now considered a regional benchmark for best practice in integrated solar development.
Notably, the solar farm’s design incorporates:
Measures to reconnect fragmented habitat
Buffer zones for sensitive ecological areas
Dual land use strategies, including livestock grazing beneath the solar arrays
By embedding sustainability into every layer of project design, the Fraser Coast Solar Farm demonstrates how utility-scale solar can deliver clean energy while preserving local ecosystems, cultural heritage, and agricultural value.
Solar Farms vs Other Renewable Projects
While solar energy is among the most scalable and cost-effective renewable options, it is often deployed in combination with other technologies for optimal results.
Comparison Points:
Wind Farms: Better for overnight power, but require consistent wind speeds.
Hydro: Stable output but geographically limited.
CSP: Efficient but expensive and complex.
BESS: Essential for all renewables to manage intermittency.
Hybrid projects combining wind and solar energy are becoming more popular. These facilities use complementary generation profiles to maximise capacity factors and reduce the cost of balancing the grid.
The Future of Solar Energy in Australia
Australia has one of the highest rates of solar radiation in the world, making it uniquely suited to solar energy production. This geographic advantage, combined with favourable market conditions and policy momentum, is positioning solar power as the cornerstone of the country’s renewable energy transformation.
The last decade has seen a dramatic rise in both rooftop and utility-scale solar installations. However, the next decade promises even more ambitious developments—driven by decarbonisation targets, global investment trends, and the urgency of energy resilience in the face of climate volatility. The energy sector is undergoing a major redesign, with solar energy at its core.
Key Trends to Watch:
Expansion of Renewable Energy Zones (REZs): Governments are establishing REZs to centralise investment and infrastructure for renewables. These zones are prioritised for transmission upgrades and fast-tracked approvals, providing developers with certainty and scalability.
Integration of AI and IoT for Optimised Performance: Advanced monitoring systems and AI-driven analytics are enabling predictive maintenance, performance optimisation, and real-time energy forecasting. These technologies will help solar projects become more cost-effective and responsive to grid demands.
Dual Land Use Strategies: There is growing adoption of agrivoltaics—integrating solar with agriculture. This includes sheep grazing beneath panels, pollinator habitats, and even crop cultivation in some settings. These strategies improve land-use efficiency and strengthen community support.
Growth in Solar Power Export: Projects like Sun Cable, such as the Australia-Asia PowerLink, aim to export solar energy from the Northern Territory to Singapore via undersea transmission lines, signal a new era of solar as a high-value export commodity. Australia could become a regional energy exporter powered by the sun.
Community and Decentralised Solar Projects: Beyond utility-scale farms, we’re seeing a rise in community-owned solar systems, virtual power plants (VPPs), and solar cooperatives. These initiatives empower local communities, reduce energy costs, and build social license for broader energy reforms.
Long-Duration Storage and Hybrid Integration: As battery technology improves, solar farms will increasingly be coupled with long-duration storage systems and hybrid configurations with wind or hydro. This will mitigate intermittency and allow solar to play a base-load role.
Carbon Farming and Environmental Credits: Solar projects that incorporate biodiversity offsets or land restoration may benefit from participation in carbon markets. These co-benefits can enhance project value while supporting Australia’s net-zero emissions goals.
As technology continues to evolve, costs continue to fall, and policies continue to align with climate goals, Australia is poised to lead the world in solar innovation and deployment. Solar farms will not only deliver clean electricity, but also contribute to economic revitalisation in regional areas, promote energy sovereignty, and demonstrate the viability of large-scale, nature-compatible infrastructure.
Why Choose AES for Solar Project Support?
AES is one of Australia’s leading environmental consultancies focused on renewable infrastructure. We bring:
Deep understanding of planning frameworks
Experienced project managers and scientists
Proven success across dozens of solar developments
Customised environmental documentation and reporting
Support through the entire project lifecycle-from pre-feasibility to decommissioning
Our goal is to help developers deliver clean energy projects that stand up to regulatory scrutiny, stakeholder expectations, and environmental responsibility.
Related Articles in This Series
Explore more in our solar education series:
What You Need to Know About Solar Farms in Australia
What You Need to Know About the Biggest Solar Farm in Australia
Scott Stevens is a newly appointed Environmental Graduate with a diverse background combining hands-on experience, academic achievement in ecology, conservation and urban environments, along with strong leadership skills refined during his military service. His practical expertise is further supported by his qualification as a carpenter, which offers valuable insight into the construction industry and strengthens his credibility with practical solutions.
His military service exposed him to a range of cultures and lifestyles, deepening his respect for nature and local communities. Now embarking on his consultancy career, Scott is committed to bridging academic research and real-world application by supporting initiatives that enhance biodiversity, promote sustainable land management, and develop resilient ecosystems.
Driven by his belief that progress and the natural world can work in harmony, Scott values collaboration and creative problem-solving. He is passionate about contributing to sustainable solutions that benefit both our clients and the broader community while maintaining the integrity of the environment throughout every project.
Allison has recently joined Applied Environment & Safety, adding her passion for environmental sustainability to the team. Allison enjoys using her extensive practical experience to collaborate with project teams to develop innovative environment and sustainability solutions.
Allison completed a Bachelor of Environmental Science in 2007 and has 15 years’ of experience working in environment and sustainability roles. She has worked throughout Australia in transport, power, renewables, water and mining sectors across project planning, design, construction, operations and maintenance.
Allison has diverse interests in compliance management and reporting, construction environmental management, infrastructure sustainability, environmental planning and approvals, and stakeholder management. Allison strives on combining sound technical advice with extensive environmental knowledge and understanding of legislation and policy to support project delivery that minimises impacts and provides benefits to the surrounding communities and environment.
Allison will be providing Applied Environment & Safety with senior environmental planning, compliance and management support for our upcoming power, transport and mining projects.
In her spare time, Allison strives to live sustainably by sourcing local produce, minimising food waste and keeping herbs and veggies in her garden alive. She will also take any opportunity she gets to tell anyone about her dog, a 10 yr old cattle dog cross called BB, who loves snoozing, barking at the postie and slow daily walks.
This article introduces the requirements of an Ecological Assessment in Queensland, which forms part of the development application process. We provide details on how we assist our clients through this process.
What is an Ecological Assessment?
The ecological assessment for developments in Queensland will vary according to the development approval pathway.
A small development, such as a residential development, is typically subject to the requirements of the local government planning scheme. The local Council will liaise with state government agencies as part of the assessment where State matters are triggered. Most local governments provide guidelines for ecological assessments to accompany development applications.
More complex developments may require submission to your local Council or maybe ‘called in’ by the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) for assessment. Infrastructure projects, such as road, rail and energy infrastructure, are often subject to separate approvals processes and/or are exempt from some components of standard planning approvals processes.
For developments where matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) are present, depending on the scale of impact, it may be necessary to refer the development to the Commonwealth government. MNES include threatened species; threatened ecological communities; lands, waters or species subject to international agreements or treaties, including migratory shorebirds; World Heritage Areas and Ramsar wetlands.
Why is ecological assessment critical?
An Ecological Assessment is part of the regulatory requirements for development applications in Queensland. An Ecological Assessment provides a means of identifying protected species or areas and determining the potential impacts of the development on these sensitivities.
How do you conduct an ecological assessment?
Qualified and experienced environmental professionals undertake Ecological Assessments. They are developed to include the relevant ecological information necessary for the development application. This will typically consist of the following:
– Description of the development
– Results of the ecological desktop assessments and field-based surveys
– An assessment of the impacts from the development on ecological values
– Recommendations to avoid or mitigate impacts of the development on ecological values
– Any further actions required
For a development application with minor disturbance, we assist our clients through the Ecological Assessment process through these steps:
– Undertake an onsite inspection of the proposed development and discussions about the works including clearing and other ground disturbance methodologies
– Inspection of disturbance area including vegetation to be cleared
– Development of Ecological Assessment Report with details from supporting reports such as arborist reports or flora and fauna surveys
– Development of management measures and offsets to minimise and mitigate the impacts from the proposed development
– Submission to local Council
– Follow up with the Council on the lodgement of the Ecological Assessment Report and respond to any questions including updating the Plan as required
As part of the Ecological Assessment, planning and design considerations are firstly considered to minimise potential environmental impacts. This may include minimising the disturbance area, avoiding areas with high biodiversity values, using existing cleared areas, and locating new infrastructure near existing infrastructure. Management measures are developed to minimise impacts including managing the vegetation clearing process.
How can Applied Environment & Safety Help?
Applied Environment & Safety has been assisting local clients with ecological assessments for their proposed developments against the Noosa Plan 2020: Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Code. We have diverse experience in development applications and environmental impact assessment. This allows us to identify potential impacts and develop practical mitigation and management measures.
Google Review from our local client
– Jeff Sly –
“I highly recommend, Applied Environment & Safety, the service I received, was above and beyond, what I expected when I requested their expertise in this field. Melanie, and her team, provided a comprehensive Environmental report for the approval process to progress; we had numerous issues satisfying council requirements. Melanie worked through the issues meticulously, until approval was granted. Tanya and Jeff.”
Lachlan has recently joined Applied Environment & Safety, adding his passion for environmental sustainability to the team. He enjoys researching environmental issues and collaborating with teams to develop innovative environmental solutions.
A lifelong fascination with the natural world inspired Lachlan to pursue a career in environment management. Lachlan completed a Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) with a Distinction in 2018 and has commenced a Master of Environment at the University of Melbourne.
Lachlan has diverse interests in research related to climate change adaptation, sustainable land management, conservation and regeneration. Through taking courses at Universities in Australia, Austria and Denmark, he was able to explore a broad spectrum of academic research in environmental sciences, which has provided him with an interdisciplinary and global understanding of these fields. Experiencing alternative systems to environmental management spurred his interest in the field, driving him to undertake further coursework and a career in environmental management.
Over the past 5 years he has consolidated his practical knowledge through various field roles in environmental management, monitoring and regeneration. Working in the civil construction industry and NFP sector has allowed him to work closely with various stakeholders from the State and Federal Government to community groups. Taking an active role in small teams, he facilitated projects from inception and design to implementation.
Lachlan has been assisting Applied Environment & Safety with environmental planning for the decommissioning of the Eyre Peninsula Transmission Line project, which commences early in the new year.
In his spare time, Lachlan is a keen supporter of community environmental projects, notably waterways regeneration. Lachlan is also a keen trail runner and spends his weekends creating ceramics, his food garden and woodworking.
Key Components of a Site Environmental Management Plan (SEMP)
A Site Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) is a site-specific document identifying the environmental aspects of an activity; the potential impacts of the activity on these environmental aspect; and ways in which these impacts can be reduced through management strategies and site practices.
In simple terms, the main focus of a SEMP is the development of a plan that is specific to an activity and outlines:
– The activity to be undertaken
– Relevant environmental aspects
– Potential impacts of the activity on these aspects
– How these impacts will be managed through implementation and monitoring
Description of Activity
The SEMP should describe the activity to be undertaken. This should define the nature and scope of the activity and include the location, phases of work and timing/scheduling. The level of detail of the activity description should be sufficient to provide an understanding of each process and allow determination of the environmental potential impacts.
The SEMP should include a description of any relevant approval conditions and internal or client management requirements. The plan should distinguish between construction and operational activities, if relevant.
A site plan or drawing should also be included with the following:
– Location of work areas and access
– Environmental aspects such as waterways, native vegetation, residential housing etc
– Locations of environmental protection measures
Environmental Aspects
The SEMP should identify the environmental aspects located within or surrounding the activity area. The types of environmental aspects that need to be considered may include the following:
– Erosion and sedimentation
– Water management including stormwater
– Dust and air quality management
– Noise and vibration
– Waste minimisation and management
– Hazardous materials storage and use
– Flora and fauna including weeds
– Indigenous and non-indigenous heritage
– Rehabilitation
Potential Impacts on Environmental Aspects
It is important to understand the link between the activities and environmental aspects. An assessment should be undertaken to identify potential environmental impacts of the activity including the nature and extent of the impacts; short-term and long-term effects; and any uncertainties regarding the predicted impacts. This assessment requires two steps as detailed below.
Step 1: Identify the environmental aspects
The types of environmental aspects are listed above. There may be generic risks that relate to all of your activities, such as waste and chemical management, and then also site-specific aspects, such as surrounding vegetation, erosion and sediment and nearby houses.
Step 2: Undertake a risk assessment
Based on the environmental aspects, document the likelihood and consequence of impacts from the activity:
Likelihood
What is the likelihood that the aspect will impact the environment?
Certain = Will occur at a frequency greater than every week if preventative measures are not applied.
Likely = Will occur more than once or twice but less than weekly if preventative measures are not applied.
Unlikely = This might occur once or twice during the project if preventative measures are not applied.
Rare = Unlikely to occur during a project even if controls are missing.
Potential Impact
How severe will the potential impact be?
Catastrophic = Significant damage or impact on the environment or community
Major = Major adverse environmental or social impacts
Moderate = Moderate undesirable environmental or social impacts
Minor = No or minimal adverse environmental or social impacts
The level of risk to an environmental aspect will determine the type and amount of mitigation and management measures that will be required. Where a significant risk to the environment has been identified, environmental protection measures must be introduced to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. Aspects with a medium or low risk should also have practicable management measures implemented if these can further reduce risk. The types of management measures are detailed in the next Section.
Managing Environmental Impacts
The types of measures that may be implemented for controlling potential impacts on environmental aspects may include:
– Water diversion structures
– Soil stabilisation measures
– Sediment retention structures
– Vehicle, machinery and equipment cleaning mechanisms
– Waste separation and containment
– Bunding and other spill prevention
– Flora and fauna protection mechanisms
– Archaeological/heritage protection mechanisms
Monitoring the Effectiveness of Environmental Controls
The SEMP should specify how the effectiveness of environmental controls will be monitored. It should include the methodology, frequency and duration of monitoring activities. It should include trigger values or conditions under which corrective actions will be taken. The plan should also specify if, and when, follow-up action is required and how monitoring records will be maintained.
An example of environmental monitoring is the implementation of a Weekly Environmental Inspection to check environmental controls throughout the activity. The trigger point would be non-compliance with any of the requirements in the Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist. This would then require an assessment of the effectiveness of the controls and the potential implementation of additional or revised controls.
Further Information on Environmental Management Plans
Applied Environment & Safety has vast experience in the development and implementation of Site Environmental Management Plans. We supported our client in the development and implementation of site-specific management plans.
PCA Ground Engineering was engaged by the local Council to undertake a road embankment stabilisation project at Sunrise Beach, Noosa, Queensland. The works were vital to maintaining the long-term serviceability of the road and drainage infrastructure at this location.
We developed the Environmental Management Plan; Sediment and Erosion Control Plan; and Rehabilitation Plan. The environmental aspects of the project included:
– Erosion and sediment control
– Biosecurity management
– Waste management
– Rehabilitation
We believe in using our expertise and knowledge improve project outcomes for our clients. We use our extensive construction knowledge to identify environmental risks and provide practical solutions.
Environmental plans and controls were effectively implemented during this project. We believe in working closely with our clients to build supportive relationships. By working together, we ensured environmental risks were mitigated during this project.
Building on our introduction to management systems, we have provided you with a simple and easy-to-follow Environmental Management System Checklist to determine your compliance against ISO 14001. We have also included a direct downloadable PDF version of the checklist to simplify your assessment process.
Context
THE ORGANISATION
Have we determined internal and external issues that will impact on our environmental management system?
INTERESTED PARTIES
Have we determined what internal and external interested parties are relevant to the environmental management system and what are their requirements?
SCOPE
Have we determined the boundaries of the environmental management system and documented the scope?
Leadership
LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT
Can we demonstrate top management is providing leadership and commitment to the environmental management system?
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Do we have a documented environmental policy that is communicated and available?
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Are roles and responsibilities for environmental management documented?
Planning
RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Have we determined the environmental risks and opportunities related to our organisation?
Do we have plans to address them? Have we maintained records?
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS
Have we determined our environmental aspects and impacts, including any significant aspects and our criteria for determining this?
Do we have plans to address them? Have we maintained records?
COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS
Have we determined our compliance obligations and how they apply to us? Do we have plans to address them?
Have we maintained records?
ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES
Have we established environmental objectives?
Do we monitor, measure and communicate them?
Do we have plans to address them?
Have we maintained records?
Support
RESOURCES
Have we determined and ensured the necessary resources for the environmental management system?
COMPETENCE
Do we ensure the training and competence of personnel?
Do we maintain records?
AWARENESS
Have we ensured that personnel are aware of our policy, significant aspects and processes relevant to them?
COMMUNICATION
Have we determined processes for internal and external communication relevant to environmental management including staff, contractors, visitors, regulators and interested parties?
Have we maintained records?
CONTROL OF DOCUMENTS
Do we ensure documents and records are controlled?
Operations
OPERATIONAL PLANNING AND CONTROL
Have we established and maintained procedures to meet the requirements of the environmental management system?
Do we maintain control and influence over outsourced processes?
Consistent with a life cycle perspective do we consider environmental requirements in design processes and ensure impacts associated with transportation, use and end-of life treatment are controlled?
Do we maintain records?
EMERGENCY
Have we documented processes for emergency?
Are they tested and do we evaluate effectiveness? Do we maintain records?
Improvement
NONCONFORMITY AND CORRECTIVE ACTION
Do we have processes for reporting, investigating and taking action to manage incidents and corrective action?
Do we maintain records?
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
Do we continually improve the environmental management system?
Applied Environment & Safety has been assisting local clients with ecological assessments for their proposed developments against the Noosa Plan 2020: Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Code.
What is included in an ecological assessment?
In summary, assessment of the proposed development against Biodiversity Significance requirements under the Noosa Plan including:
– Biodiversity values which also includes Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) and Wildlife Habitat (endangered or vulnerable)
– Koala Habitat assessment against Koala Priority Areas and Core Koala Habitat Area.
As well as wetlands and waterways assessment in relation to riparian areas.
We assist our clients through the ecological assessment process in 6 steps:
1. Undertake an onsite inspection of the proposed development and discussions about the works including clearing methodology.
2. Inspection of disturbance area including vegetation to be cleared.
3. Development of Ecological Assessment Report with details from supporting reports such as Arborist Report.
4. Development of management measures and offsets to minimise and mitigate the impacts from the proposed development.
5. Submission to Noosa Council.
6. Follow up with Council on the lodgement of the Ecological Assessment Report and provide responses to any questions including updating the Plan as required.
For this type of development application, planning and design considerations are first developed to minimise potential environmental impacts. This may include minimising the disturbance area, avoiding areas with high biodiversity values, use of existing cleared areas, and locating new infrastructure near existing infrastructure.
Then management measures are implemented to minimise impacts during vegetation clearing. This may include clearly delineating vegetation to be removed and those not to be impacted onsite; pre-clearing inspections; and engaging a qualified arborist to carry out clearing works.
Applied Environment & Safety has diverse experience in construction works and environmental impact assessment. This allows us to identify potential impacts and develop practical mitigation and management measures.
Local Client Testimonial
Jeff Sly
“I highly recommend, Applied Environment & Safety, The service I received, was above and beyond, what I expected when I requested their expertise in this field. Melanie, and her team, provided a comprehensive Environmental report for the approval process to progress, we had numerous issues to satisfy council requirements. Melanie worked through the issues meticulously, until approval was granted.“
Does your project need an ecological assessment? Contact our team – we would be happy to help!
Applied Environment & Safety are proud to be awarded 3-Star Partnership with the CCIQ ecoBiz program again this year. For eight years, we have been active participants in the ecoBiz program and a recognised Star Partner. The ecoBiz program is focussed on sustainable business practices to reduce energy and water use, and minimise waste. Our business sustainability initiatives have been recognised through this program.
CCIQ ecoBiz is a free program, funded by the Queensland Government, that helps businesses save money through reducing energy, water and waste. ecoBiz has been a very successful program working with thousands of Queensland businesses.
Given that our business operates predominantly either from our home office or client locations, our ecoBiz assessment was completed on a qualitative assessment of energy, water and waste savings.
Our achievements for 2021-2022 in regards to energy, water and waste are:
Energy
Recertified as a Carbon Neutral business via Climate Active in July 2022
Less travel for work with new local clients and providing remote support
Set five year energy reduction targets – see below
Water
Ongoing member of their local catchment group
Became volunteer for Noosa River Catchment group undertaking monthly water sampling
Waste
Approx. 30,000 cans and bottles recycled through container recycling program by our company and client initiatives
Ongoing use of reusable containers while travelling
We have been awarded 3-Star ecoBiz partnership through our energy, water and waste initiatives. Our assessment was based on our business practices and behaviours which demonstrate implementation of business sustainability, and minimisation of our environmental footprint.
Our sustainable business initiatives for 2021-2022 are:
Energy
Track additional travel related energy use such as hire cars and use of clients cars to offset in next Carbon Neutral assessment
Join and participate in Zero Emissions Noosa
Determine options for supporting other carbon neutral businesses
Water
Ongoing member of local catchment group and volunteer for monthly water sampling
Up to $1,000 donation to support a water or catchment community group
Waste
Additional measures to reduce waste while travelling for work such as less takeaway
Research waste minimisation and management initiatives outside of Australia and promote through News Posts on website
We will keep you updated on the progress of these initiatives.
Tracking of our carbon offsets, container recycling and donations are reported on our website HERE.
Iina has recently joined Applied Environment & Safety adding her strong research skills and passion for sustainability to the team. She enjoys researching environmental issues and collaborating with teams to create innovative environmental solutions.
Iina completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture in 2001 and has continued her studies including an Advanced Diploma of Sustainable Building Design as well as commenced a Masters of Regional Planning by Research at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Iina has diverse interests in research related to climate change adaptation, landscapes and social adaptation. She has explored how this may relate to the reintegration of traditional ecological knowledge and urban agriculture into peri-urban regions as well as consideration of social and environmental issues associated with small lot housing estates. She is also interested in the way older Australians maintain their housing resilience and self-care.
Over the past few months, Iina has been assisting Applied Environment & Safety with a diverse set of environmental and business planning projects. She has completed environment and safety audits to aid onsite personnel to manage their requirements in a streamlined way; completed compliance reviews leading to the drafting of new policies and procedures; supported clients with the provision of information about environmental licencing and regulatory requirements; and conducted ecological assessment project work.
In her spare time, she is a keen supporter of citizen science environmental projects. She believes that this is worth developing with younger generations to inspire social change for the good for the environment.
Earlier in the month, Applied Environment & Safety was invited to present as a showcase local business at the Biz to Net Zero business breakfast in Noosa, a net zero industry and innovation program.
The event was coordinated by CCIQ ecoBiz Leader’s Forum, Noosa Shire Council, and local business associations. More than 100 local business people keen to learn about how to achieve carbon neutrality in their business or to start the journey, attended this event.
The purpose of this event was to engage the local business community in practical carbon reduction and offset solutions to support them through the economic transition to a zero-carbon future, as a proactive response to climate change. The event was aimed to provide clarity around the benefits to business of reducing emissions, investing in offsets and promoting themselves as carbon neutral in the context of net zero.
Also a focus of the event was celebrating ecoBiz Partners by recognising and awarding them with Partnership Certificates. Applied Environment & Safety was awarded 3-Star Partnership again this year. We have been active participants in the ecoBiz program and a recognised Star Partner for over five years. Through this program, we have been implementing sustainable business practices based on reducing energy and water use, and waste minimisation.
Melanie Dixon, Director of Applied Environment & Safety, was a guest speaker at the event. Melanie spoke about when starting her business over eight years ago it was important to her that the company led by example. So she reached out to ecoBiz and together we have been implementing sustainable business practices since 2015. Then in 2020, we started the process to become carbon neutral.
So What is Next?
Applied Environment & Safety have just set our carbon emissions reduction strategy for the next five years which includes changing to electric vehicles and supporting other carbon neutral businesses. See below.
We are working on building our local client base as well as encouraging our clients to allow us to provide remote support. These both assist in reducing our travel and associated energy use. We are also looking for further opportunities to support our local community and environment through volunteering. Melanie has just become a WaterWatch volunteer, participating in monthly water sampling, as part of Noosa Integrated Catchment Association.
We really believe that every person and every business can make a difference. You don’t need to be a big organisation, or spend a lot of money, there are sustainable options, sustainable choices for everyone and every business.
If you need some advice about your carbon neural journey feel free to contact us with your questions and queries.
