How

The primary way that landholders protect nature on their land is by entering into a voluntary legal agreement to safeguard nature forever.

This agreement is called different things in different parts of Australia, but its most commonly known as a conservation covenant. It can cover all of a property, or just part of a property – the landholder decides.

A conservation covenant allows the landholder to enjoy their land, while ensuring that any land management activities won’t harm conservation values – now and into the future.  

In some states there are programs that help landholders with advice and financial assistance to establish and maintaining a conservation covenant.

Unfortunately, these vital programs are dangerously underfunded, and in some states don’t even exist. It means that support for new landholders wishing to protect nature is limited. 

How can we help more landholders to protect?

Landholders want help to permanently protect nature on their land. There are clear ways that the Australian government can make this happen.

Fund State and Territory Conservation Covenant Programs

The government can help landholders to create new conservation agreements by directly funding state and territory covenant programs. These agreements help more landholders protect natural areas in regions that haven’t received enough attention.

Review Tax Incentives and Barriers for land with conservation covenants

Conservation covenants contribute significantly to the broader community by safeguarding natural ecosystems, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. These protected areas enhance the overall quality of life for everyone. Offering tax breaks acknowledges the valuable role landholders play in preserving nature, for the benefit of all Australians.

Establish a dedicated national fund for conservation land purchase

A dedicated $5 billion federal fund for conservation land purchase, leveraged with funding from the state and territory governments, philanthropy and corporate investment, is a critical means of achieving a comprehensive, adequate and representative protected area system.

Healthy ecosystems protect the essentials for life – our air, our water, our soil, and our biodiversity. Supporting landholders who make space for nature will leave a valuable legacy and ensure a healthy future for all Australians. 

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