A close up of the western swamp tortoise, looking at the camera. Its skin is spiny and its carapace is light brown.

Western swamp tortoise. Photo – DBCA

A statutory five-year review of the operation and effectiveness of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (the Act) is now underway.  The review is being conducted in accordance with section 277 of the Act under the direction of the Minister for the Environment.

The review will examine and report on the operation and effectiveness of the Act with particular attention to protecting and conserving threatened species and threatened ecological communities.

The review is necessary to ensure that the Act remains current, effective and fit for purpose.

The Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 can be downloaded from the Parliamentary Counsel's Office website.  

The Act was passed in 2016, with some parts commencing in December 2016. It came into full effect on 1 January 2019, alongside the Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2018.  More information on the Act and Regulations is available on our Biodiversity Conservation Act and Regulations page.

The review must consider and have regard to: 

  • the objects of the Act;
  • the adequacy of the penalties imposed under the Act; and
  • any other matters that appear to the Minister to be relevant to the operation and effectiveness of the Act.

The review will be supported by a review panel comprising three members with Ms Lorna Clarke MLA as chair supported by Professor Owen Nevin and Ms Kelly Faulkner.

Consultation during the review

The review is expected to be completed within 18-months. This will involve the preparation of a report to the Minister for the Environment which will be informed by the panel’s research, stakeholder consultation and analysis. 

Public submissions will be invited following the release of a discussion paper which is anticipated to be available in the second half of the year.

Stay informed 

Keep an eye on this web page for information about the status of the review.

Downloads

Biodiversity Conservation Act – Terms of Reference 2026
- 196.94 KB (PDF) Last updated 24-02-2026

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Related

Biodiversity Conservation Act and Regulations

Protecting Western Australia’s unique biodiversity.

Corporate policies

Policy statements for the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

Good Neighbour Guideline

The Good Neighbour Guideline, together with a departmental Good Neighbour Policy, guides the department’s approach to managing cross-boundary issues with its neighbours.

Public Interest Disclosures

The Public Interest Disclosure Act 2003 (PID Act) facilitates the disclosure of public interest information by providing protection for those who make disclosures and those who are the subject of disclosures.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.