Redleaf Group News

From Uniforms to Impact: Recycling at Redleaf Group

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:29:35 GMT

A Team Initiative Driving Change

At Redleaf Group, sustainability is more than a commitment — it is embedded in how we work every day. As a company dedicated to conservation and environmental stewardship, we believe that meaningful change starts with the decisions we make within our own workplace.

Recently, our Administration team identified an opportunity to further reduce our environmental footprint by responsibly managing our retired staff uniforms. Through a recycling service provided by Macpac in collaboration with UPPAREL, we are ensuring that our old uniforms are recycled rather than sent to landfill.

Giving Old Uniforms a New Life

Uniforms play an important role in representing the Redleaf Group brand and creating a sense of unity within our team. However, like all clothing, they eventually reach the end of their usable life.

By utilising Macpac’s textile recycling service, powered by UPPAREL, our retired uniforms are collected and processed through a specialised recycling system. These garments are sorted and transformed into reusable materials, helping divert textile waste from landfill and contributing to a more circular approach to clothing.

This initiative allows us to extend our environmental responsibility beyond the work we do in the field and into our daily operations.

An Initiative Driven by Our Team

One of the most rewarding aspects of this program is that it was driven internally. Our Admin team recognised the opportunity to improve how we manage uniform waste and took the initiative to implement the recycling solution.

Their leadership reflects the values that guide Redleaf Group every day:

RELIABLE | PASSIONATE | TENACIOUS | INNOVATORS | EXCEPTIONAL

Now the entire office is involved. Staff return old uniforms for recycling and actively participate in our broader workplace sustainability efforts.

At our Redleaf Group office, we currently recycle:

Uniforms
Batteries
Pens
Ink cartridges
Paper

We also look for ways to reuse materials that come through our operations. For example, we receive sampling jars from our scientific testing partners for use in the field when collecting soil, water and other environmental samples. When we have surplus jars, we donate them to University of Southern Queensland so they can be used by students and researchers in their studies.

Each of these actions helps reduce waste, extend the life of useful materials, and reinforce our shared commitment to environmental responsibility.

Living Our Mission

Our mission is clear:

We are committed to connecting people, places, and wildlife, leaving a lasting positive impact for the generations to come.

We also strive to change individuals’ understanding of the bush, our shared heritage, and how we can protect these values.

Our goal — Guiding better decisions today, for the benefit of future generations tomorrow by fostering a connection between individuals and our natural and built environments — extends to the way we operate as a business.

Programs like this demonstrate that sustainability is not just part of the services we provide; it is part of our culture.

Looking Forward

By embracing initiatives like textile recycling and finding opportunities to reuse resources, Redleaf Group continues to look for practical ways to minimise our impact and support a more sustainable future.

Most importantly, these initiatives highlight what makes our organisation strong — a team that cares deeply about the environment and is willing to take action to protect it.

Because protecting the landscapes and wildlife we work to conserve starts with the choices we make every day.

Queensland Waterway Barrier Rules Updated – What Developers Need to Know

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:00:04 GMT

Queensland Updates Waterway Barrier Rules – What Developers and Infrastructure Projects Need to Know

Queensland has introduced updated Accepted Development Requirements (ADRs) for waterway barrier works, bringing important changes to how culverts, crossings and other in-stream infrastructure are designed and approved.

The updates, implemented under the Fisheries Act 1994 (Qld) and the Planning Act 2016 (Qld), aim to improve fish passage and aquatic habitat protection across Queensland waterways.

A transition period applies until 30 November 2026, during which project proponents can choose to comply with either the updated ADRs or the previous standards.

These changes are relevant to many infrastructure and development projects, including:

Road crossings and bridges
Culverts and drainage infrastructure
Dams and irrigation works
Mining and energy developments
Temporary construction barriers in waterways

For developers and project managers, understanding the updated requirements early can help avoid approval delays, design changes and compliance risks.

Key Changes to Queensland’s Waterway Barrier Requirements

Stronger Fish Passage Design Standards

The updated ADRs introduce stricter fish passage requirements for culverts and crossing structures to ensure aquatic species can move more freely through waterways.

Key design considerations now include:

Reducing excessive water flow velocities through culverts
Minimising “dark zones” within long culvert structures
Improving bed simulation and substrate continuity
Ensuring structures maintain connectivity across a wider range of flows

These changes reflect growing recognition that poorly designed barriers can fragment aquatic habitats and restrict fish migration.

Updated Waterway Mapping Across Queensland

The Queensland Government has also released updated high-definition waterway mapping to improve identification of regulated waterways.

Notable updates include:

Reclassification of drainage basins such as the Condamine–Balonne, Moonie and Border catchments
Changes to how high-order (“purple”) waterways are identified
Improved spatial accuracy of mapped waterways

As a result, some areas previously considered minor drainage features may now be mapped as regulated waterways requiring compliance with waterway barrier rules.

New Notification Requirements for Temporary Barriers

Temporary barriers used during construction activities now require formal notification to regulators.

This change is designed to:

Prevent misuse of self-assessable development provisions
Ensure temporary structures do not unintentionally disrupt fish passage
Reduce risks to aquatic habitats during construction works

Developers and contractors undertaking temporary works within waterways should review these requirements carefully.

Broader Definition of a “Waterway”

The updated guidance also expands how waterways are defined under the legislation.

This broader interpretation means that some features not previously captured may now be regulated, including:

Drainage lines
Ephemeral streams
Modified or artificial channels

This has implications for projects involving:

Rural crossings
Agricultural infrastructure
Stormwater and drainage works
Urban development projects

Early site assessment is therefore increasingly important.

Greater Focus on Cumulative Barrier Impacts

The updated framework recognises the cumulative impacts of multiple small barriers within a catchment.

While a single structure may appear minor, repeated barriers across a drainage network can significantly affect fish movement and aquatic ecosystem connectivity.

The revised guidance encourages planners and designers to consider catchment-scale impacts rather than assessing structures in isolation.

When the Updated Rules Apply

The updated Accepted Development Requirements for waterway barrier works are already in effect.

However, a transition period until 30 November 2026 allows proponents to apply either:

The updated ADRs, or
The previous standards

This transition period gives developers, infrastructure providers and local governments time to update design practices and planning processes.

Why the Changes Matter for Infrastructure and Development Projects

The updated rules may affect approvals and design for a wide range of projects, including:

Road and bridge upgrades
Culvert installations and replacements
Agricultural crossings and irrigation infrastructure
Stormwater drainage systems
Mining and energy developments
Temporary construction works within waterways

Considering these requirements during early project planning can reduce the risk of redesign, approval delays and compliance issues.

How Redleaf Group Can Help

Redleaf Group has extensive experience supporting projects requiring waterway barrier approvals, fish passage assessments and aquatic ecological advice across Queensland.

Our team regularly assists clients with:

Waterway barrier impact assessments
Fish passage design advice
Pre-lodgement discussions with regulators
Operational Works approvals and self-assessable compliance
Aquatic ecological surveys and habitat assessments

Early engagement can help ensure your project meets regulatory requirements while maintaining efficient project delivery.

If you’re unsure how the updated waterway barrier rules may affect your project, the Redleaf team can help interpret the new requirements and guide you through the approvals process.

Redleaf Team Shares Industry Insights with UniSQ Environmental Science Students

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Redleaf Environmental Scientists Speak at UniSQ Industry Panel

Redleaf Group recently participated in a guest industry panel hosted by the University of Southern Queensland School of Science, Engineering and Digital Technologies, giving students the opportunity to hear directly from professionals working in the environmental science industry.

Environmental Scientists and Ecologists Rylie and Levi represented Redleaf Group during the panel discussion, sharing insights into their roles, their studies, and what a typical day can look like working in environmental consulting.

The event gave students studying environmental science and related disciplines valuable insight into career pathways in the industry and the practical skills needed to transition from university into the workforce.

From UniSQ Student to Environmental Scientist

For Rylie, the event was particularly meaningful as a graduate of the University of Southern Queensland. She was able to reflect on her journey from being a UniSQ student to building her career as an Environmental Scientist at Redleaf Group.

Sharing her experiences allowed students to better understand how their university studies can translate into real-world roles in environmental science and ecology.

Practical Advice for Future Environmental Professionals

Levi, who has been with Redleaf Group for around five years, shared valuable insights from his experience working in the environmental sector.

During the Q&A session, he provided practical advice to students on how they can make themselves more employable and encouraged them to be proactive in reaching out to industry professionals before graduating.

Building connections early, seeking opportunities to gain industry exposure, and engaging with professionals in the field were key pieces of advice he shared with students preparing to enter the environmental industry.

Building Connections Between Industry and Students

The panel discussion sparked strong engagement from students, many of whom were interested in learning about the different pathways into environmental science careers and how their studies can translate into meaningful work in the industry.

Events like this provide valuable opportunities for students to hear firsthand experiences from professionals while helping strengthen connections between universities and industry.

Redleaf Group is proud to support opportunities that help inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and ecologists while building meaningful connections with students and graduates entering the field.

To learn more about Redleaf Group and our team, visit our About page:

Branchview Road Bridge Officially Opens Following Major Upgrade

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:51:37 GMT

Branchview Road Bridge Upgrade | Environmental Support by Redleaf Group

The official opening of the upgraded Branchview Road Bridge on 5 March by Toowoomba Regional Council marks an important infrastructure improvement for the region, enhancing safety and reliability for rural road users.

Members of the Redleaf Group team attended the opening to celebrate the completion of this significant project for the local community.

For communities that rely on rural transport networks, bridges are critical pieces of infrastructure. Upgrades like the Branchview Road Bridge help ensure safe access for residents, agricultural operations and emergency services while strengthening regional connectivity.

Redleaf’s Role in the Project

Redleaf Group was engaged to provide environmental approvals and ecological assessments to support the bridge upgrade works and ensure compliance with relevant environmental legislation.

Our scope included:

Conducting Protected Plant Surveys for threatened flora, including Picris barbarorum and Digitaria porrecta .
Preparing an Impact Management Plan (IMP) to guide mitigation and management measures.
Securing a Protected Plant Clearing Permit under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld) to enable construction works to proceed.
Undertaking an assessment of potential impacts to the Natural Grasslands of the Queensland Brigalow Belt (North and South) Bioregions, listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Following our assessment, it was determined that the project would not result in a Significant Impact, meaning the project did not require referral under the EPBC Act.

Why the Project Matters

Infrastructure upgrades in rural landscapes often occur in areas with significant ecological values. Successfully delivering these projects requires careful planning to ensure that infrastructure outcomes are achieved while protecting biodiversity and meeting legislative requirements.

Through early ecological investigations and regulatory approvals, Redleaf helped streamline the approvals process and provide confidence that environmental risks were appropriately managed.

How Redleaf Added Value

Our involvement ensured the project could proceed efficiently by:

Identifying threatened flora early in the planning process
Providing practical mitigation measures through the Impact Management Plan
Navigating regulatory requirements under both State and Commonwealth legislation
Supporting Council with clear and defensible environmental approvals
This approach helped avoid delays while ensuring ecological values were appropriately considered and managed.

Supporting Sustainable Infrastructure in the Toowoomba Region

Redleaf Group is proud to support projects that balance essential infrastructure delivery with sustainable environmental outcomes. Our work on the Branchview Road Bridge upgrade reflects our ongoing commitment to the Toowoomba Region and our experience assisting local governments and infrastructure providers to navigate complex environmental approvals.

As infrastructure investment continues across regional Queensland, early ecological planning and regulatory expertise will remain critical to delivering projects efficiently while protecting the region’s unique natural values.

Project Case Study

Queensland Nature Conservation Act Reforms: What They Mean for Development, Landholders and Industry

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Queensland has introduced important reforms to the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NCA), strengthening how the State manages protected species, wildlife habitat and conservation areas — while improving clarity and consistency around environmental approvals.

The updates are designed to ensure responsible development in Queensland with clearer guidance for proponents, landholders, developers and industry. Importantly, the reforms do not reduce environmental protections. Instead, they focus on improving approval pathways, aligning legislation and reinforcing biodiversity safeguards.

If you are planning works that may interact with native vegetation, threatened species or protected areas, understanding the updated framework is essential.

What Has Changed Under the Nature Conservation Act?

The reforms centre on four key objectives:

Clearer environmental approval pathways
Improved alignment with the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act)
Stronger risk-based decision-making
Ongoing protection of biodiversity and threatened flora and fauna

Together, these changes aim to reduce uncertainty while maintaining robust environmental standards.

Clearer Approvals and Responsibilities for Proponents

The reforms provide greater clarity around when approvals are required under the Nature Conservation Act — particularly where projects may:

Disturb wildlife habitat
Involve clearing in areas supporting protected species
Occur within or near protected areas and reserves

Updated definitions and guidance are intended to reduce ambiguity and help proponents identify approval requirements earlier in the planning process. Early certainty can significantly reduce redesign, delays and compliance risk.

For developers and landholders, this means improved visibility around environmental obligations before construction or operational works commence.

Better Alignment with the Environmental Protection Act 1994

A key outcome of the reforms is stronger integration between the Nature Conservation Act and the Environmental Protection Act 1994, as well as related regulatory frameworks.

This improved alignment is expected to reduce:

Duplicated environmental assessments
Conflicting approval conditions
Delays caused by disconnected regulatory processes

In practical terms, projects that proactively identify environmental risks should benefit from more coordinated and streamlined approvals across State legislation.

Continued Strong Protection for Biodiversity in Queensland

While the framework improves efficiency, it reinforces Queensland’s commitment to:

Protecting threatened species and ecological communities
Retaining important habitat values
Avoiding, minimising and mitigating environmental impacts

Projects with higher environmental risk will continue to undergo rigorous assessment and compliance monitoring. Risk-based decision-making ensures that regulatory scrutiny is proportionate to potential environmental impacts.

What Do the NCA Reforms Mean for Your Project?

Depending on your activities, the updated Nature Conservation Act framework may influence:

Threatened species survey requirements
Conditions applied to development approvals
Habitat protection, environmental offsets or rehabilitation obligations
Timeframes and supporting documentation requirements

For many proponents, obtaining early ecological and regulatory advice will become even more important. Identifying environmental risks upfront can help avoid project delays, unexpected conditions and unnecessary costs.

How Redleaf Group Supports Clients Under the Revised Nature Conservation Act

Redleaf Group works with government, developers, infrastructure providers, industry and landholders across Queensland to help projects proceed confidently and responsibly under environmental legislation.

Our services include:

Strategic advice on environmental approval pathways
Nature Conservation Act compliance and project strategy
Threatened species and habitat assessments
Preparation of technical reports and supporting documentation
Coordination with regulators and key stakeholders
Environmental risk management and compliance planning

Our approach is practical, collaborative and outcomes-focused — helping clients meet statutory obligations while keeping projects moving efficiently.

Need Advice on the Queensland Nature Conservation Act Reforms?

If you are planning development, infrastructure, land management or tourism activities that may interact with native vegetation, wildlife habitat or protected areas, our team can provide tailored guidance on:

Approval requirements
Environmental risks
Next steps under the revised framework

Get in touch with Redleaf Group

Launch of Redleaf Group Heritage website

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:01:49 GMT

We are excited to announce the launch of redleafgroupheritage.au , showcasing our expanded Heritage Team and our full range of Cultural Heritage, Built Heritage, Native Title, and Training services.

On the new site you’ll find:

Heritage service overview
Profiles of our heritage specialists
Project examples and tailored solutions
Cultural awareness and heritage training opportunities

We welcome your feedback and invite you to explore the new site.
Contact: heritage@redleafgroup.au

Team Training – Riparian Revegetation Field Day

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:28:17 GMT

Through the year our teams undertake training in various areas. Earlier in the year, the ecology team at Redleaf Group spent a day in the field understanding the importance of riparian revegetation and learning about the methods used to support its regeneration.

Riparian vegetation refers to the plant life that grows along the banks of rivers, streams, creeks, and other flowing bodies of water. These plants play a vital role in stabilising soil along waterways, helping to reduce erosion and sedimentation. In turn, this supports the health of our ecosystems by maintaining water quality for the plants and animals that depend on these habitats.

They visited sites with varying levels of success, which helped them to better understand factors to consider when embarking on revegetation projects. Some factors include suitability of species to be planted, soil types, topography and the existing vegetation.

The team are keen to revisit the sites in the coming months and years to see the progress of the little seedlings.

Did you know? Natural Grasslands: Critically endangered

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:44:09 GMT

The Natural Grasslands on Alluvial Plains in the Darling Downs are a critically endangered ecological community? Once covering vast areas, these grasslands are now severely fragmented due to a range of factors including agriculture and urban development.

These grasslands are vital for the maintenance of our unique biodiversity. They provide habitat for native species, support soil health, and even maintain water quality in the region. However, with their continued decline, many of these essential functions are at risk.

By protecting and restoring these natural grasslands, we help conserve species, improve ecosystem resilience, and ensure a sustainable future for the Darling Downs. Let’s raise awareness for the importance of such ecosystems and help to preserve the invaluable ecological communities around us.

Meet the Team – Spotlight on Lachlan Harriman

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:44:06 GMT

Lachlan Harriman

Environmental Scientist & Ecologist

Lachlan Harriman is an experienced Environmental Scientist and Ecologist passionate about restoring natural ecosystems and protecting threatened species. With extensive field experience across Queensland, Lachlan has contributed to a wide range of ecological surveys—including flora and fauna assessments, habitat condition evaluations, waterway barrier assessments, and targeted threatened species surveys.

His work includes post-fire and post-flood rehabilitation, bushfire management, aquatic flora surveys, and the installation of nest boxes for vulnerable bird species. Lachlan also brings strong spatial analysis capabilities, enhancing Redleaf’s project planning and ecological modelling services.

Q&A with Lachlan

What inspired you to join Redleaf?
“I joined after university because Redleaf offered diverse projects and meaningful work. Three years in, I’ve been fortunate to work on incredible projects—from snorkelling with platypus to conducting thousands of hectares of flora surveys.”

A project you’re proud of?
“Confirming the presence of State and National environmental matters in a tributary of the Brisbane River. My surveys helped guide the client to an environmentally responsible and compliant project outcome.”

Favourite ‘wait… really?’ ecology fact?
“Many Australian birds and marsupials depend on tree hollows that take hundreds of years to form. Old-growth trees underpin entire ecosystems.”

What keeps you energised outside work?
“Hiking and wildlife photography across the national parks of South East Queensland.”

Remote Ecology in Southwest Queensland – Redleaf in Eulo

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:43:55 GMT

Redleaf Group recently completed a protected flora survey in the remote township of Eulo, a region known for its rugged landscapes and ecological significance. The site fell within a protected flora trigger area mapped under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, requiring a Suitably Qualified Person and adherence to strict survey guidelines.

To meet these requirements, Redleaf deployed one of our ecologists, Dr Pawel Waryszak, from the Toowoomba office—travelling via a small aircraft (affectionately dubbed the “flying washing machine”) to reach the site located more than 700 km from the nearest major centre.

Rigorous and Responsible Surveying

Our assessment followed the Queensland Flora Survey Guidelines to ensure every flora species, including those of conservation concern, was accurately recorded. This work reflects Redleaf’s commitment to robust science, detailed documentation, and responsible environmental management, particularly in remote or sensitive landscapes.

Supporting Your Environmental Needs

Beyond flora surveys, our Environment Team supports councils, landholders, government agencies, and industry clients with a full suite of services including:

Flora & fauna assessments
Habitat mapping & biodiversity impact studies
Environmental monitoring and rehabilitation planning
Offset delivery advice and suitability assessments
Waterway barrier surveys & aquatic ecology assessments
Environmental modelling and compliance advice

Whatever your environmental challenge, Redleaf’s multidisciplinary team provides solutions grounded in experience, precision, and practical outcomes.

Honouring Country Through Connection: Cultural Heritage Leadership at Nudgee Beach

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:43:47 GMT

At Redleaf Group, our heritage work is guided by a deep respect for Country and a commitment to meaningful connection with Traditional Owners. This year, we partnered with GHD and Brisbane City Council on a cultural heritage assessment at Nudgee Beach , working closely with the Turrbal People , the Traditional Owners of the area.

Collaboration with Purpose

Our Heritage Team walked Country with the Turrbal People, listening to their knowledge and cultural stories that shape the significance of this landscape. While no physical artefacts were found, the process reaffirmed the site’s cultural importance and the enduring relationship between people and place.

Embedding Cultural Values in Project Delivery

Redleaf provided practical recommendations to ensure the project continues respectfully, including:

On-Country cultural heritage monitoring
Cultural heritage inductions for project teams
Opportunities for signage and interpretation of local cultural stories

Walking Forward Together

With this phase complete, the project progresses with a shared understanding of Country and its cultural values. Redleaf is proud to support work that brings people and Country together—and we remain committed to culturally grounded, collaborative heritage practice.

Did you know? Blaze Trees: Silent Markers of the Past

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:43:23 GMT

Did you know? Not all scarred trees are of Aboriginal cultural origin. Some, like the ones in these photos, were “blazed” by early European settlers, explorers, or surveyors to mark trails, boundaries, land parcels and even watercourses.

These scars were often made using iron/steel axes, and the cut marks of these tools alongside visible traces of white paint are typical indicators of a European origin. They were used as surveyor’s marks before being replaced by the permanent survey markers that form the basis of today’s cadastral maps.

You might be wondering: How do our expert archaeologists identify these blaze trees? These trees are identified by:

Iron axe cut marks
Remnants of white surveyor’s paint
Placement on fence lines, lot corners, or boundary points

Scarred trees, including these blazes, are all part of the multi-layered history written, or in this case - cut into our landscapes.

Queensland Environmental Protection Act 1994 Reforms: What the 2025 Changes Mean for Your Project

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 23:30:00 GMT

On 20 November 2025, the Queensland Government introduced the Environmental Protection (Efficiency and Streamlining) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, proposing significant reforms to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (Qld).

The Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act) remains Queensland’s primary legislation regulating environmental management and environmentally relevant activities (ERAs). The proposed amendments are designed to improve efficiency and clarity within the approvals framework, while maintaining strong environmental protections.

Rather than weakening environmental safeguards, the reforms aim to create a more risk-based, proportionate and streamlined regulatory system for proponents, developers and local government.

What Is Changing Under the Environmental Protection Act 1994?

The proposed EP Act amendments are intended to:

modernise environmental approval and assessment processes
streamline pathways for low-risk environmentally relevant activities
clarify responsibilities, compliance expectations and regulatory triggers
reduce duplicated assessment effort between agencies
allow regulators to focus resources on higher-risk activities

For project proponents, the framework remains robust but is expected to become clearer, faster and more predictable, particularly where environmental risk is low.

Key Reform Themes Under the EP Act

1. Streamlined Approval Pathways for Low-Risk ERAs

Under the amended EP Act, a greater range of standard and self-assessable codes is expected to apply to low-risk environmentally relevant activities.

In appropriate circumstances, this may result in:

reduced Environmental Authority (EA) application requirements
shorter statutory assessment timeframes
lower approval costs and administrative burden
clearer environmental conditions at the outset

Importantly, higher-risk activities will continue to require full assessment. The reforms focus on removing unnecessary process where environmental impacts are limited and well understood.

2. Clearer Environmental Obligations and Compliance Requirements

A key objective of the reforms is to improve clarity and consistency across the EP Act by:

refining key definitions
aligning enforcement and compliance powers
clarifying when an EA, code or exemption applies
using more consistent language across legislative provisions

These changes are intended to reduce approval uncertainty and delays by providing greater transparency around:

which approvals are required
what constitutes compliance or non-compliance
regulator expectations during operation and rehabilitation

3. More Risk-Based Environmental Regulation

The amendments place stronger emphasis on aligning regulatory effort with actual environmental risk.

For industry, this is expected to deliver:

less red tape for routine, low-impact activities
greater scrutiny of large-scale or higher-risk proposals
improved consistency in assessment outcomes
clearer consequences where environmental harm occurs

Overall, the reforms aim to create a more predictable and proportionate environmental approvals system.

What the EP Act Reforms Mean for Proponents and Developers

If your project triggers the Environmental Protection Act 1994, the proposed reforms may affect:

whether a full Environmental Authority is required
approval complexity, timeframes and costs
the level of technical or specialist studies required
operational and rehabilitation conditions
ongoing compliance and enforcement obligations

While approval pathways may become simpler for some activities, the reforms also reinforce the importance of:

early identification of environmental risk
appropriate technical assessment
clear documentation and approvals strategy
ongoing compliance once approvals are issued

How Redleaf Group Can Help Navigate the Amended EP Act

Redleaf Group supports clients through the full EP Act approvals lifecycle, helping projects move forward efficiently and with confidence. Our services include:

EP Act approval pathway identification

Determining whether self-assessable codes, standard conditions or a full Environmental Authority apply.

Environmental Authority applications

Preparing EA documentation and managing regulator engagement on your behalf.

Environmental risk and compliance strategy

Ensuring obligations are clearly understood and met throughout construction and operation.

Technical environmental assessment

Providing defensible ecological and environmental studies to support approvals where required.

Our focus is on reducing approval uncertainty, minimising delays and maintaining compliance.

What You Should Do Now

Project proponents should:

review planned or ongoing projects involving environmentally relevant activities
confirm likely approval pathways under the amended EP Act
reassess project timeframes to account for potential efficiencies
seek early advice to avoid unnecessary redesign, delay or compliance risk

Brisbane 2032 “Games laws”: what’s changing for cultural heritage approvals in Queensland

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Government has introduced a Games-specific approvals framework that changes how cultural heritage is managed for certain Games-related projects.

Recent amendments to the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements Act 2021 (BOPGA Act), introduced through the so-called “Games laws”, establish an alternative pathway for cultural heritage approvals for a limited class of Brisbane 2032 infrastructure.

This article outlines what is changing, which projects are affected, and what this means for proponents, project teams and heritage practitioners.

A new approvals regime for Brisbane 2032 venues and transport infrastructure

The Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 amends the BOPGA Act to create a tailored approvals framework for certain Brisbane 2032 venues, villages and transport infrastructure, referred to as “authority venues” and project areas.

For these defined Games projects, cultural heritage is managed through a Games-specific process, rather than relying solely on the usual interaction between:

the Planning Act 2016
the Queensland Heritage Act 1992
the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, and
other relevant State and local laws

Under the Games laws, approvals are centralised within Games delivery entities, including the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA), and aligned to the strict timeframes required for Games delivery.

How the Games-specific cultural heritage process works

A key feature of the Games laws is the introduction of a formal “cultural heritage notice”.

Once a cultural heritage notice is given for a qualifying Brisbane 2032 project:

the project transitions into the BOPGA Act approval pathway
cultural heritage matters are assessed under the Games-specific regime
decisions are made by designated Games authorities rather than through standard approval pathways

This process is designed to streamline approvals for Games infrastructure, while still requiring heritage considerations to be addressed.

What the Brisbane 2032 Games laws do – and do not – apply to

It is critical to understand that this regime is narrowly targeted.

The Games-specific cultural heritage framework applies only to projects that are:

expressly identified as Brisbane 2032 authority venues, villages or Games transport infrastructure, and
regulated under the BOPGA Act

For these projects, compliance with the Games laws can, in certain circumstances, authorise works despite potential inconsistencies with other legislation, provided all Games-specific requirements are met.

However, most projects in Queensland are not affected.

For non-Games projects – including the majority of council works, private developments and regional infrastructure – existing heritage frameworks continue to apply in full, including:

the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, including Duty of Care and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) requirements
the Queensland Heritage Act 1992
local planning-scheme heritage overlays and local heritage registers

Practical implications for project teams and proponents

For organisations involved in infrastructure delivery, the key questions are:

Is the project a Brisbane 2032 authority venue, village or Games transport project?

If not, standard cultural heritage obligations apply.

If it is a Games project, which provisions of the BOPGA Act apply?

This includes understanding the role of the cultural heritage notice, decision-makers, and project-specific timeframes.

Early identification of the correct approvals regime is critical to avoiding delays, compliance risks and stakeholder issues.

How Redleaf is supporting Brisbane 2032 cultural heritage compliance

Redleaf is closely monitoring the evolution of the Brisbane 2032 Games laws and approvals framework.

Where clients become involved in Games-related infrastructure, we can:

determine whether the Games-specific or standard heritage regime applies
design heritage methodologies that meet BOPGA Act requirements
support robust engagement with Traditional Owners and key stakeholders, even within accelerated delivery timeframes

If you would like advice on how the Brisbane 2032 Games laws affect your project, please contact our team.

Early Traditional Owner engagement under EPBC reforms – what it means for heritage projects

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:57:13 GMT

Recent reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) have strengthened expectations around early engagement with Traditional Owners for projects that require federal environmental approval. For organisations planning major infrastructure or development, this affects how heritage, culture and environment are considered right from the outset.

What has changed at the federal level?

The reforms introduce new National Environmental Standards (NES) and associated guidance that make clear Traditional Owners should be engaged early, not just once an EIS or assessment is already in full swing. For proposals affecting World Heritage and National/Commonwealth Heritage places, Ramsar wetlands or other Matters of National Environmental Significance, proponents are expected to show how Traditional Owner knowledge has informed project design, impact assessment and mitigation measures.

The updated federal “Engage Early” guidance reinforces that Traditional Owners and relevant Aboriginal parties are the primary source of information about Indigenous cultural values, and that their involvement should be planned into project timelines and budgets rather than treated as a late compliance step.

What hasn’t changed for day‑to‑day Queensland work?

These EPBC changes do not alter Queensland’s own heritage legislation. The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 and local planning‑scheme heritage overlays continue to operate as before, with the usual Duty of Care and CHMP processes still in place. For purely State or local projects with no federal referral, existing obligations and workflows remain the primary reference point.

What this means in practice

For projects that have a realistic chance of triggering the EPBC Act, there are practical implications:

Scoping: Potential EPBC issues (e.g. World Heritage, National Heritage, Ramsar) should be identified early, and Traditional Owner engagement built into the project scope from the beginning.
Engagement planning: Engagement with Traditional Owners should occur before referral or early in the assessment process, with clear records of meetings, input and how concerns have shaped survey design and mitigation.
Reporting: Heritage and environmental reports for EPBC‑relevant projects should explicitly reference the new expectations for early engagement and demonstrate how Traditional Owner perspectives are integrated into final recommendations.

For clients, building this engagement in upfront can reduce risk and delay in federal approvals while supporting better cultural and environmental outcomes.

Major Changes to the EPBC Referral Process – What You Need to Know

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 01:03:49 GMT

If you’re planning a project that may trigger the EPBC Act, approvals are about to work very differently.

The Commonwealth Government has introduced the most significant reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) in over two decades. These changes reshape how environmental referrals, assessments, and approvals are undertaken, with stronger national standards and new streamlined pathways.

Key Changes You Need to Know

Streamlined Assessment Pathway: Multiple older assessment routes have been consolidated into a single streamlined pathway. For eligible proposals, decisions may now be issued within 30 business days , provided the referral information is complete and robust.
Higher Upfront Information Requirements: Referrals must now include more detailed baseline data, impact analysis, and justification to qualify for the faster pathway.
Binding National Environmental Standards: All referral decisions must now align with new National Environmental Standards, ensuring proposals avoid “unacceptable impacts” and meet strengthened requirements for managing residual impacts.
Expiry of ‘No-Controlled-Action’ Decisions: A “no-controlled-action” determination will automatically lapse after five years unless the project has substantially commenced.
Creation of a New Federal Regulator: The reforms establish the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) , significantly increasing compliance oversight and enforcement powers.

Traditional Owner Engagement

The reforms strengthen expectations around early Traditional Owner engagement, particularly for projects affecting MNES such as listed ecological communities, wetlands, and culturally significant landscapes.

Proponents are now expected to:

Demonstrate early and proactive liaison with Traditional Owners or Native Title parties
Include cultural values, knowledge and perspectives in baseline information
Identify impacts on culturally significant species, places or landscapes
Show how Indigenous engagement has informed avoidance, mitigation, and offset planning

Early engagement is now considered essential for delivering a “complete” referral that qualifies for streamlined pathways.

How Redleaf Can Support Your Project

Redleaf can help you navigate the new EPBC requirements by:

Conducting early project screening and identifying risks
Preparing referral packages that meet strengthened information thresholds
Facilitating Traditional Owner liaison and integrating cultural values into project design
Updating impact and offset assessments
Advising on the suitability of streamlined vs. standard pathways

If you’re planning a future development or unsure how the reforms affect your project, our team is here to help.

Redleaf After Dark: A Night of Appreciation and Celebration

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 01:05:14 GMT

As we reflect on 2025, one of the standout moments for our team was hosting Redleaf After Dark—a cocktail evening held in appreciation of our valued clients. This exclusive event brought together over 20 of our partners and collaborators for a memorable night of celebration, gratitude, and connection.

Held in a relaxed, elegant setting, the evening was our way of saying thank you for your continued trust and support throughout the year. We enjoyed great conversation, good music, and a chance to unwind and reflect on the successes we’ve achieved together.

For those who joined us, thank you for making the night truly special. And for those who couldn’t make it, we look forward to celebrating with you next time!

Below are some highlights from the evening—capturing the energy, camaraderie, and joy shared by all. Here's to another year of growth, teamwork, and achievement with the Redleaf Group.
Cheers!