Review of Environmental Factors (REF)

A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) study is an Environmental Assessment performed in accordance to Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). 

It is required to be implemented when  ‘Activities’ such as those conducted by ‘self determining authorities’ (e.g. government agencies and public authorities) are carried out .

As part of the assessment these "Activities" need approval under NSW legislation and planning instruments and the main legislative and planning requirements that need to be addressed in the REF include: 

• the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) and National Parks and Wildlife Regulation 2002 (NP&W Reg)
• Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016
• the Fisheries Management Act 1994
• Heritage Act 1977
• all requirements under section 5A of the EP&A Act, specifically ‘Assessments of Significance’ ( 7-part test )
• State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007
• all other relevant State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPP)

Earthwise Environmental Consultants is experienced at preparing a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) in accordance with Clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation (2000).

We are experienced in undertaking stakeholder consultation to produce a highly professional and effective REF reports.