NSW land-clearing up 16% in 2024 as conservation groups say Minns government failing to rein in habitat loss
Summary
In New South Wales (NSW), land clearing increased by 16% in 2024, with more than 81,000 hectares of vegetation removed. Most of this was non-woody plants used for agriculture, and many clears were done without permits. Conservation groups say the Minns government has not managed to reduce habitat loss.Key Facts
- NSW lost about 81,293 hectares of vegetation in 2024, an increase of 16% from the previous year.
- Clearing of non-woody plants like grasses rose sharply by 70%.
- Woody vegetation, including trees and shrubs, cleared was 24,103 hectares, which is less than last year but still high.
- About 60% of the cleared land was for farming, with the rest for infrastructure and forestry.
- 60% of clearing was "unallocated," meaning it either did not require a permit or was done illegally.
- The current government, led by Premier Chris Minns, promised to reduce clearing but has not changed policies since 2023.
- A classification allowing clearing of "invasive native species" made up 61% of permitted clearing on regulated rural land.
- Environmental groups warn that this level of clearing harms wildlife habitats and increases carbon pollution.
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