South Australia Unveils Groundbreaking Biodiversity Act: A Bold Step to Safeguard Native Species and Combat Climate Change

South Australia has made history by passing its first-ever Biodiversity Act. This new law helps protect the state’s unique plants and animals while tackling climate change. Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Susan Close, highlighted the importance of this legislation during its announcement.

Before this Act, biodiversity was governed by various laws, which made protection efforts complicated. Now, the Biodiversity Act provides a clear and unified framework for conservation.

The Act was shaped by feedback from a variety of stakeholders, including scientists, farmers, and industry planners. One of its standout features is a general duty clause. This mandates that all South Australians play a role in protecting biodiversity.

To enhance protection efforts, the Act establishes stricter regulations for native plants and tougher penalties for harmful actions. Businesses now face fines of up to $500,000 for damaging or trafficking native species, a significant increase from previous fines ranging from $2,500 to $100,000. Individuals can also face severe consequences, with fines up to $250,000 or even five years in prison for illegally harming protected animals.

Additionally, the Act introduces a process for identifying critical habitats crucial for endangered species. It also standardizes how threatened species are listed across the nation, ensuring collaboration with a scientific committee.

Susan Close emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, “This new Biodiversity Act is an example of South Australia taking a leading role in protecting the environment.” She believes that not only should we stop harming nature, but we must also work to restore it for a better future.

This landmark Act comes at a time when biodiversity loss is a pressing global issue. According to a 2020 report by the United Nations, around 1 million species face extinction due to human activity. This highlights the urgency of effective environmental laws like the Biodiversity Act.

In a recent survey, 78% of South Australians expressed a strong desire for more action on environmental issues. This shows widespread support for initiatives that protect local ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.

The Biodiversity Act represents a significant step toward a more sustainable future for South Australia, balancing economic development and environmental protection.

For more information on biodiversity efforts, you can visit the [South Australian Government](https://www.sa.gov.au/) website, which outlines ongoing initiatives and programs.

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Biodiversity,Climate Change