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.

For an up-to-date list of solar farms by state and capacity, refer to the National Map of Renewable Energy Projects.

Australia’s Largest Solar Farms

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 (Coming Soon)

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
• What You Need to Know About Solar Farm Construction

In July, the Applied Environment & Safety team headed to Maroochydore, rolled up our sleeves, and stepped into the OzHarvest kitchen for a volunteer day of purpose-driven teamwork. In just a few hours, the team prepared 80 nutritious meals destined for people in need across the community.

This hands-on experience was part of OzHarvest’s Cooking for a Cause program, which transforms rescued ingredients into wholesome meals for vulnerable Australians. Guided by the incredible OzHarvest volunteers our team learned not only how to cook with creativity and minimal waste, but also how small actions can have meaningful impact.

OzHarvest is Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, founded on the mission to nourish our nation while combating food waste. Every week, the charity collects quality surplus food from commercial outlets and delivers it to charities supporting people experiencing food insecurity. Since its inception, OzHarvest has delivered over 200 million meals and rescues 250 tonnes of food from landfill each week.

The day was more than a team-building exercise, it was a powerful reminder of the impact of community, compassion and sustainability. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lynda, Gemma and Annette for their warmth, guidance and infectious enthusiasm. Their dedication embodies the spirit of OzHarvest and left a lasting impression on us all.

As environmental professionals, we’re proud to support an organisation so deeply aligned with our values. We left the kitchen not just with full hearts, but with a renewed commitment to reducing waste and giving back.

Use of drone technology for rehabilitation monitoring

Drone technology was used at our client’s site at Tin Can Bay, Queensland to support the planning and future monitoring of vegetation restoration following a clearing event. High-resolution orthomosaic imagery and a digital elevation model (DEM) were generated from the drone flight data by Biodiverse Environmental, enabling accurate assessment of site conditions and disturbance extent.

The DEM provided a basis for comparing landform conditions before and after clearing. It confirmed that the terrain remained largely unaltered, with hydrological patterns intact, suggesting strong potential for natural regeneration. The elevation data also helped verify vegetation mapping in low-lying areas that were otherwise inaccessible during ground surveys.

The orthomosaic image, created from post-clearing drone imagery, shows areas of high and low density vegetation canopy removal across the site as per the image below. These visual differences were used to assess the spatial extent and intensity of clearing. Concurrent field surveys were carried out by Applied Environment & Safety and Biodiverse Environmental, enabling real-time validation of drone observations and confirming the presence of retained woody debris, which offered insight into past vegetation structure and regeneration potential.

This imagery provides a spatial baseline for restoration planning. Annual drone surveys will capture consistent data, enabling direct year-to-year comparison of vegetation recovery. Where specific Regional Ecosystems lack the required species composition, precision reseeding such as dispersal via seed bombing by drones will be used to support natural regeneration. This dual application of drone technology supports adaptive management, guides maintenance priorities, and documents restoration outcomes over time.

This project demonstrates the value of close collaboration between aerial and on-ground survey methods. The partnership with Biodiverse Environmental highlights how integrated data collection can enhance ecological planning and strengthen long-term restoration outcomes.

Environmental Monitoring

We offer integrated environmental monitoring and management services, combining on-ground ecological expertise to support accurate planning, compliance tracking, and adaptive site management. Our team delivers tailored management plans backed by spatial data and field validation. This ensures our clients achieve regulatory outcomes and management measures for long-term ecosystem resilience. For more information, see our services page here.

How felled timber is powering streambank rehabilitation in South East Queensland

When you think of streambank rehabilitation, timber waste might not come to mind as a solution; but at a recent International Erosion Control Association Australasia (IECA) Australasia workshop, that thinking was turned on its head.

Hosted by the IECA and Healthy Land and Water, the workshop titled Using Wood in Streambank Recovery and Resilience brought together a passionate community of environmental specialists, consultants, and practitioners. Their mission? To explore how the humble tree, often cleared and discarded during construction, can play a vital role in protecting and rejuvenating our waterways.

From Waste to Wonder

Too often, vegetation felled during construction is mulched or hauled away. But what if, instead of seeing it as waste, we viewed it as a resource?

That’s exactly what the workshop demonstrated. With insightful presentations and real-world case studies, attendees learned how timber, when used strategically, becomes a powerful tool for erosion control and habitat creation. Timber piles, log jams, and woody debris structures not only stabilise banks, they also slow water flow, form pools, and foster biodiversity by reconnecting fragmented ecosystems.

A Blueprint for Smarter Rehabilitation

One of the standout messages from the day was the importance of forward planning. Rehabilitation begins long before boots hit the ground. With the right design approach, felled trees can be repurposed on-site, reducing costs, waste, and environmental impact. It’s a sustainable, circular model that benefits both projects and the planet.

Even better? These natural methods don’t stand alone. Workshop examples showcased blended techniques – combining timber structures with rock armouring and extensive revegetation to deliver stability today and resilience tomorrow.

Real Voices, Real Impact

What made the workshop truly impactful were the stories shared by on-the-ground practitioners. Their candid insights into the challenges and rewards of working with natural materials gave depth to the day’s learning. It’s one thing to talk about theory, it’s another to hear how local teams are putting it into practice and making a tangible difference in South East Queensland.

Key Takeaways

• Natural materials like timber offer both structural integrity and ecological value.
• Smart planning can turn cleared vegetation into a powerful restoration asset.
• A whole-of-ecosystem approach leads to more resilient, long-term outcomes.
• Blending natural and engineered methods results in better, more sustainable solutions.

Rewriting the Rehabilitation Playbook

This workshop was more than an educational event it was a call to action. It reminded us that rehabilitation isn’t just about repairing damage; it’s about shifting our mindset to work with nature, not against it. And it showed that, with the right approach, what we once saw as “waste” could be the key to healthier waterways and stronger communities.

Photo credit: Ipswich City Council / Healthy Land & Water

At Applied Environment & Safety, we are proud to support this type of planning and rehabilitation. Whether you’re planning clearing vegetation or rehabilitation, our team can help identify solutions, such as reusable timber to integrate it into erosion control strategies, and oversee the implementation. Together, we can design solutions that are smart, sustainable, and ecosystem-friendly from day one. For more information on how we can support you, click here.

How Native Gardens Boost Sustainability

Native gardens are becoming essential features of sustainable urban living, offering numerous environmental benefits right in our own backyards. By planting native species, we help support local wildlife, improve soil health, and reduce the need for water, pesticides and fertilisers. Native gardens are more than just aesthetically pleasing, they are vital ecosystems that foster biodiversity and strengthening the resilience of our urban environments.

Supporting Local Wildlife

One of the greatest advantages of native gardens is their ability to provide essential habitat for local wildlife. Birds, insects, small mammals and reptiles find food, shelter and nesting opportunities among native plants helping sustain local populations threatened by habitat loss.

Skinks and geckos, for example, thrive in these urban garden environments using ground cover, rocks and native flora. They also control insect populations naturally further contributing to garden health.

Native plants are also uniquely adapted to the local climate, requiring less water, fertilisers and maintenance than exotic species. This makes them not only biodiversity friendly but also cost-effective, reducing resource consumption while creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

A Community Approach to Restoration

In Noosa, not-for-profit organisations like Urban Wildlife Gardens (UWG) are pioneering efforts to integrate native gardens into environmental restoration initiatives. Through home garden visits, UWG provides expert advice on enhancing biodiversity in residential spaces and offering free native plants tailored to local conditions. They also distribute educational newsletters, inspiring residents to transform their backyards into thriving ecosystems that support native flora and fauna.

By restoring urban habitats, these initiatives help conserve endangered species while strengthening regional biodiversity.

Community-driven approaches such as these demonstrate how small, individual actions can collectively contribute to broader environmental goals. Learn more about how UWG is transforming urban spaces with native gardens at https://urbanwildlifegardens.org.au.

Making an Impact Through Native Gardening

Choosing native plants for our gardens isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a powerful step toward environmental sustainability. These simple yet meaningful changes enhance local ecosystems while supporting global efforts to preserve biodiversity. By embracing native gardens, we contribute to broader ecological goals that align with global conservation efforts, including the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals.

Native gardens advance the following Sustainability Development Goals.

Our Commitment

Applied Environment & Safety’s Director, Melanie Dixon, has been a member of UWG for over five years and is committed to gardening which supports local biodiversity. Melanie has targeted the removal of environmental weeds from her garden and planting with local species suited to the micro-climates of the garden. Melanie says that “The birds, insects and lizards that are attracted to my garden is quite amazing”.

For more information on Applied Environment & Safety’s commitment to environmental sustainability, click here.

Applied Environment & Safety is looking for a new team member. Our range of projects continues to grow and so we are seeking an environmental consultant to join our team.

About the job

Drive environmental outcomes & be part of our sustainable business
Are you passionate about environmental compliance and looking to work on large construction projects? Do you want to be part of a consultancy that leads by example and leads real change?

Applied Environment & Safety is growing, and we are looking for an environmental consultant to part of our team. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with experts, deliver practical solutions and make a real impact.

Why join our team?
– Work on important renewable energy & infrastructure projects
– Be part of a team committed to sustainability & environmental excellence
– Enjoy a flexible & supportive work environment with remote working options
– Access mentoring and support with our collaborative team
– Competitive salary, performance incentives & work-life balance

What will do
– Lead environmental onsite compliance support for major infrastructure projects
– Manage project approvals, risk assessments, and compliance strategies
– Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams
– Engage in business development by supporting proposals and client relationships
– Stay ahead of legislation & policy changes, shaping sustainable project outcomes

What we are looking for
– 5+ years of experience in environmental approvals or planning in the infrastructure or energy sectors
– Previous onsite environmental construction experience is highly desirable
– Passion for environmental excellence
– Strong project management, problem solving and stakeholder engagement skills

What we offer
Flexibility – Work-from-home options & additional purchased leave
Incentives & perks – Performance bonuses, wellness days & professional memberships
Impact-driven work – Help drive the transition to clean energy & sustainable solutions

At Applied Environment & Safety, environmental excellence and sustainability is at the core of everything we do.

If you are ready to make a difference and grow your career, we want to hear from you!

Send your resume and cover letter to: info@appliedes.com.au

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.

While working on construction projects in Queensland, it’s important to be aware of how your work might affect local wildlife. The Nature Conservation Act 1992 focuses on protecting nature, especially wildlife and their habitats, while ensuring any use of these natural resources is sustainable.

If your project could impact the breeding places of protected animals, from those that are critically engandered to those considered least concern, you’ll need a Species Management Program (SMP). Breeding places include not only obvious spots like birds nests or tree hollows but also less visible areas where animals like frogs and reptiles breed.

What does an Species Management Program do?

An SMP helps to:

• Spot risks – identify any potential threats to animal breeding sites due to your project
• Manage impact – put in place measures to avoid to minimise any harm to these sites, both now and in the future
• Keep track – set up monitoring and reporting to ensure your efforts are effective and compliance reporting can be completed

Types of Species Management Programs

There are two types of SMPs:

• High risk – for species that are colonial breeders (e.g. groups of animals of the same kind co-existing in close association for breeding purposes), special least concern, near threatened, vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered
• Low risk – for species of least concern that aren’t colonial breeders

Species Management Programs and other approvals

Keep in mind, an SMP doesn’t cover everything, such as clearing vegetation, which might need approval under other laws like the Planning Act 2016 or the Vegetation Management Act 1999.

The bottom line

If you’re in construction, knowing the ins and outs of the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and SMPs is crucial. It ensures you’re not only following the rules but also playing a part in protecting Queensland’s wildlife. Proper planning and following the SMP guidelines will help you reduce your project’s environmental impact while keeping your project on track.

Applied Environment & Safety has maintained certification as a certified carbon neutral company through Climate Active. While we are a small business with relatively low carbon emissions, we believe in playing our part in protecting the climate and implementing sustainable business practices. By achieving Climate Active certification, we join a collective group of companies committed to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and climate change impacts.

What is Climate Active?

Climate Active is an Australian Government initiative and organisation that certifies businesses, products, services and events as carbon neutral. Climate Active certification is awarded to Australian businesses that have met rigorous requirements to achieve net zero carbon emissions. This requires a business to credibly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and then offset any remaining emissions through the purchase of carbon offsets.

This certification demonstrates our committment to sustainable business practices. Our Climate Active certification ensures we are accountable for our carbon footprint and this is one aspect of our formalised sustainability goals.

How does Applied Environment & Safety maintain carbon neutral certification?

Each year to maintain carbon neutral certification, we are required to complete Step 2 to 6 of the Climate Active certification process pictured below:

• Step 2 – calculating our annual emissions from business operations
• Step 3 – reviewing progress against our Emissions Reduction Strategy
• Step 4 – purchase offsets equivalent to our annual net emissions
• Step 5 – engaging an independent registered consultant who is certified under the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard
• Step 6 – publicly disclosing our carbon neutral claim

By following this process, our clients can have confidence that by working with us, they are supporting our carbon neutral operations; having a net zero impact on climate change while engaging our services; and working with an organisation dedicated to sustainability and continuous improvement.

For more details on our carbon neutral status including our Emissions Reduction Strategy, view our Public Disclosure Statement.

For more information on Climate Active and their initiatives, visit Climate Active.

In the construction industry, implementing effective erosion and sediment controls is essential for minimising environmental impact. Erosion of soil and sedimentation into waterways from construction sites can significantly harm local waterways, ecosystems, and other infrastructure. Erosion and sediment controls measures, such as ground cover, sediment basins, and erosion control blankets, help prevent soil erosion and minimise sediment runoff.

With each storm system across Australia, erosion results in plumes of sediment within waterways and into the oceans, significantly altering the water chemistry and ecosystem function. A recent study from the University of Queensland determined that southeast Queensland’s Moreton Bay area of clean sand which is prime habitat for dugongs has reduced from 442 km² fifty years ago to only 30 km² today. The deposition of sediment smothers underwater plants and deteriorates ecosystem health. This fine sediment pollution, transported from as far as Toowoomba within the Brisbane River catchment, is caused predominantly from land use changes and loss of vegetation.

By prioritising erosion and sediment controls, construction projects can demonstrate environmental responsibility, comply with regulations, and protect natural resources. This includes the development and implementation of Sediment and Erosion Controls Plans. Effective planning and implementation of controls can assist with project budgets and timelines through improving site access during wet conditions and minimising rehabilitation costs.

If you are unsure of your requirements sediment and erosion control, then reach to us today.

Stay tuned for more posts about the latest in best practice for erosion and sediment control.

Applied Environment & Safety has been working in the field with Biodiverse Environmental to validate our desktop flora and fauna review through a targeted ecological and weed survey. Findings from this fieldwork will assist us with the development of specific management plans for flora and fauna, biosecurity, and rehabilitation for the Fraser Coast Solar Farm project.

This renewable energy project comprises of a 350 mW solar facility. The project involves reconfiguration of four rural lots to facilitate the construction of 900,000 solar collector panels. The solar panels, arranged as modules and supported by inverters, will be installed alongside power stations to feed electricity generated directly into the existing adjoining substation.

Our support to the project includes the development of the Construction Environmental Management Plan and environmental aspect specific sub-plans for Council approval. As well as the management of additional studies and secondary approvals.

Following the targeted ecology and weed survey, a nocturnal survey will be undertaken to develop a Species Management Program. This survey will target the identification of any project activities that have the potential to impact on breeding places of protected fauna such as amphibians in billabongs and dams as well as microbats in trees.

Species Management Program

A Species Management Program is required if development activities have the potential to impact on a breeding place of an animal classified as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, special least concern, colonial breeder or least concern. Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Nature Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020, significant penalties apply if development works impact a breeding place without an approved Species Management Program.

This is an exciting opportunity for Applied Environment & Safety to be supporting Global Power Generation Australia in the development of their environmental management plans and supporting their Council approval. We are very happy to be supporting this local project and be part of the growing renewable infrastructure on the Fraser Coast.

For more information on the services that we provide, visit our What We Do page.

Applied Environment & Safety have been supporting Enerven on the Eyre Peninsular Transmission Line Demolition project. This decommissioning project involves the demolition and disposal of two transmission lines and site rehabilitation. In total, 507 structures over about 213 km have been decommissioned from Whyalla to Port Lincoln in South Australia.

Our team contributed their operational experience to support onsite environmental and land access management for the project, focussing on biosecurity, landholder management and protection of flora and fauna.

One challenge on the project was the management of birds nesting in towers to be demolished. The project approval allowed for the destruction of birds’ nests, however it was opted not to impact species listed as endangered, vulnerable or rare under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.

Our onsite Environmental Consultant, Lachlan Peace, supported the project team by delivering and implementing the Bird Management Procedure. Lachlan led the collection of field data in order to identify species and lifecycle information. He also developed training information for work crews to ensure minimal disturbance to birds’ nests.