Reviewing the mix of methods to accelerate progress to achieving biodiversity targets in a Victorian Catchment Management Authority

Abstract

It was widely stated by staff and partner organisations of the Victorian based Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA) that the GBCMA's biodiversity targets would not be achieved in the desired timeframe if the existing rate of progress was maintained. A review was commissioned by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries and the GBCMA to identify the changes needed to accelerate progress, particularly with regard to the activities of private landholders. This group was perceived to have the most influence on levels of biodiversity.

The review was structured around a four-stage framework to guide the selection of methods or strategies (also referred to as instruments to implement policy) that bring about appropriate behaviour. These methods range from the provision of information to regulatory compliance. Literature was reviewed to identify what was needed for the current mix of methods to be effective. Sixteen criteria were found; for example, methods need to match the scale and urgency of the problem. Some of the recommendations from the review were that more direct payments to landholders are needed to reward them or to help them manage biodiversity on their properties; better farm management plans are required to inform landholders; and a greater use of funds to buy farm land would enable modification of land use to include the preservation of biodiversity before resale of properties on the open market.

Keywords:

• methods
• policy instruments
• mix of methods
• biodiversity targets