To carry out a project under the Nature Repair Market, you must follow the requirements under each relevant method. A method can reference:
- documents
- datasets
- systems.
The Replanting native forest and woodland ecosystems method is the first method. The documents and resources listed on this page relate to this first method.
This page provides information and guidance for proponents and ’suitably qualified persons’.
Approved Benchmark Source List
Under the first method, proponents must select a reference ecosystem for activity areas. This reference ecosystem should be appropriate native forest or woodland. The reference ecosystem will serve as a benchmark for restoration activities.
Under the first method, proponents must select an appropriate reference ecosystem for each activity area. The reference ecosystem is the native vegetation type that was most likely to be present on the land before clearing (or pre-1750). The reference ecosystem will serve as the model or benchmark for restoration.
Proponents need to show that a project is progressing towards the reference ecosystem. This is measured using ecosystem condition indicators.
Ecosystem condition indicators have benchmark values. Benchmark values represent the expected value of the indicator for the relevant reference ecosystem in an undegraded state.
Benchmark values must be established using either:
- existing data from an approved source on this list
- the reference site survey process.
Approved sources listed in this document. It includes reference benchmarks for ecosystems in:
- New South Wales
- Australian Capital Territory
- Victoria
- Queensland
- Tasmania.
Proponents may be unable to establish benchmark values from an approved source on this list. In this case, they should follow the reference site survey process in the first method.
Refer to the Plain English guidance on how to:
- establish benchmark values from an approved source
- use the reference site survey process.
A combination of these processes may need to be used to establish benchmark values for all ecosystem condition indicators that must be measured under the method.
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IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology
This is a global resource to help classify and assess ecosystems. Under the first method, projects must identify and describe their reference ecosystem consistently with this typology at the ‘functional group’ level.
Read about Global Ecosystem Typology.
National Vegetation Information System
The National Vegetation Information System (NVIS) is a dataset that provides information on the extent and distribution of vegetation types in Australia. Under the first method, projects must identify and describe their reference ecosystem consistently with NVIS. This is at both the ‘association’ level and ‘sub-association’ level.
Read about National Vegetation Information System.
Nature Repair Market Data Submission Guidelines
Proponents must use these guidelines when:
- collecting field data for biodiversity projects
- meeting requirements under the Nature Repair Market
- reporting to the Clean Energy Regulator.
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Templates for data submission
Proponents can use these templates to collect field-based data that meets method requirements. These should be filled out by a ‘suitably qualified person’ under a method.
Once complete, proponents can submit them to the Clean Energy Regulator through the online portal, along with any associated reports.
The templates complement the Nature Repair Data Submission Guidelines.
| Method | Templates | Version |
|---|---|---|
| Replanting native forest and woodland ecosystems method | 1.1 |
Nature Repair Market Mapping Guidelines
Proponents must use the Nature Repair Market Mapping Guidelines when preparing geospatial data to:
- meet requirements under the Nature Repair Market
- report to the Clean Energy Regulator.
The guidelines are consistent with the requirements of the:
- Nature Repair Act 2023
- Nature Repair (Consequential Amendments) Act 2023
- Nature Repair Rules 2024
- Nature Repair (Biodiversity Assessment) Instrument 2025
- associated methods under the Nature Repair Market.
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Dataset requirements
The geospatial data required for a Nature Repair Market project must include certain information. This varies depending on the type of application and the first method.
| Key | Application type |
|---|---|
| R | Registration |
| V | Vary area |
| C | Reporting (and certificate issuance) |
| Dataset | Type | Dataset definition | Replanting Native Forest and Woodland Ecosystems method 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project area | Polygon | The area of land on which the project has been, is being, or is to be, carried out. | RV |
| Activity area | Polygon | Eligible areas where project activities are to occur. | RV |
| Sub-area | Polygon | Activity areas that have been divided further into sub-areas based on a reference ecosystem. | RV |
| Exclusion area | Polygon | Areas within the activity area that do not contribute to project activities. | N/A |
| Sampling plot | Polygon | An area within an activity area where field data is collected. | RVC |
As new methods are approved they will be added to this list.
Concepts
Understanding the following concepts will make the mapping guidelines easier to use.
Mapping tools use processed remote-sensing data. This includes aerial photographs or satellite images as a backdrop. Polygons that define the land area of interest can be drawn over these.
Data is orthorectified, which means it is corrected for distortions due to:
- topography
- camera angle
- lens imperfections.
This results in an image that is orthographically-correct or like a map. This means the image has a defined orientation. The area, shape, direction and distance can be determined according to a single scale across the entire area.
Orthographically-corrected imagery, including digital photography, is often referred to as ‘orthoimagery’. The terms ‘orthophotography’ and ‘orthorectified’ satellite imagery are also used.
A datum is a set of parameters and control points used to accurately define the three-dimensional shape of the Earth. This provides a reference for measuring horizontal and vertical distances on a map. Coordinate systems are usually defined by a:
- map projection
- spheroid reference
- datum
- number of other parameters, for example:
- standard parallels
- a central meridian
- possible shifts in the x and y directions.
The two most used coordinate systems in Australia are:
- geographical (latitude and longitude)
- Map Grid of Australia (MGA).
Some areas of Australia may use regional or local datum, projections and coordinate systems. Australia is changing to a new official geodetic datum called the Geocentric Datum of Australia 2020 (GDA2020. This is replacing the Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 (GDA94).
Mapping involves ‘projecting’ the three-dimensional surface of the Earth onto a two-dimensional surface (sheet of paper or its electronic equivalent).
A map projection can be described as a:
- mathematical model
- set of mathematical equations.
A map projection describes the relationship between the same points on the three-dimensional and two-dimensional surfaces. It can transform the spatial relationships of features on the Earth’s three-dimensional surface onto a two-dimensional surface. This is done in such a way as to minimise distortions in:
- area
- shape
- direction
- distance.
A flat map does not accurately reflect the shape of the Earth. That is why many different map projections are used in spatial analysis and map-making. Some projections preserve shape, while others preserve accuracy of area, distance or direction.
You should use the Map Grid of Australia (MGA94) set of equations for topographic mapping in Australia.
A mapping tool is a computer software package. It is designed to allow a user to create, store, edit and display the map polygons (and their attributes). It defines the boundaries of physical features visible on base imagery. These can include:
- forests
- roads
- lakes.
This process of creating an electronic representation of physical features is called ‘on-screen digitising’.
Metadata is structured descriptive data that provides information about another set of data. It can be found using database and internet technologies that automate search and retrieval capabilities. Data.gov.au can assist with the search process.
Metadata must be maintained and kept up to date the same way as spatial data. When metadata is out of date, its usefulness and value is reduced. Metadata should be maintained in accordance with the relevant state or territory government requirements and any appropriate data policies. These data policies include:
- the Foundation Spatial Data Framework (FSDF)
- Spatial Information Management Policy from the Spatial Information Council of Australia and New Zealand (ANZLIC).
ANZLIC has developed a metadata standard that sets out minimum requirements for metadata. ANZLIC Metadata Profile Guidelines include information about the metadata standards. They have been designed for creating, storing and distributing core metadata elements.
The ANZLIC guidelines includes introductory information on metadata and its use and management. These guidelines have been widely adopted by data custodians in Australia.
National Biodiversity Assessment System
The National Biodiversity Assessment System (NBAS) provides a nationally consistent approach to:
- assessing biodiversity
- forecasting the biodiversity benefits of projects.
The NBAS is part of the Ecological Knowledge System for the Nature Repair Market. It was developed by the department and CSIRO.
The NBAS works by using information from ecosystem models combined with on-ground project data and national datasets.
The first method specifies that the NBAS must be used to calculate biodiversity benefits of proposed projects.
Access the NBAS
Platform for Nature Repair (PLANR)
Find further guidance on the use of the NBAS and PLANR in the Clean Energy Regulator’s Replanting native forest and woodland ecosystems information pack.
NBAS settings for replanting native forest and woodland ecosystems method
Use this to find out about the NBAS settings.
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PLANR guidance
PLANR is a mapping tool. It helps landholders take part in environmental markets.
Quick reference guide
This is a quick reference guide to using PLANR. It has step-by-step instructions on using its key features.
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Uploading spatial files
This guidance provides some important tips to ensure your spatial data uploads smoothly and works as intended.
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Prescribed Vegetation Classification System
The Prescribed Vegetation Classification System (PVCS) supports proponents to apply under the first method. It provides information on native forest and woodland ecosystems that can be used as reference ecosystems.
The PVCS can help identify the most suitable reference ecosystems for projects.
The PVCS:
- uses data from the Native Vegetation Information System (NVIS)
- uses other state-based vegetation classifications
- includes information on the distribution of native forest and woodland ecosystems in eligible areas.
In a project application, proponents must justify the reference ecosystem they have selected. Base this on:
- the Prescribed Vegetation Classification
- field survey information
- any other supporting evidence.
Access and download
You can access and download the PVCS in 3 formats:
- Excel dataset
- dataset and associated raster files via our data repository Prescribed Vegetation Classification dataset
- a PVCS map in PLANR (for guidance only).
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Protected Matters Search Tool
An online tool to check if protected matters exist in and around your project area.
Protected matters are certain nationally significant (protected) animals, plants, habitats or places listed in the EPBC Act.
Cultural statement and Acknowledgement of Country
The Nature Repair Market is designed to:
- actively support the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge and values
- reflect preferences of knowledge holders.
Project proponents who are interacting with Indigenous knowledge and values in project design and implementation are encouraged to engage with First Nations persons to:
- draft a cultural statement to be included in the project entry in the Biodiversity Market Register and/or
- provide an Acknowledgement of Country with respects to their project area.
Read more in the guidance on Cultural statement and Acknowledgement of Country.
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Example contract
Nature Repair Market projects are long-term commitments with upfront and ongoing costs.
Project proponents and investors can partner on projects for the Nature Repair Market.
This may occur for different reasons, including to:
- to help with upfront costs for projects
- to enable early investment in the Nature Repair Market.
This example contract may help draft contractual arrangements between parties for the sale or purchase of a biodiversity certificate.
It offers some draft legal clauses. Use these to prompt discussion and address issues you may want to consider. For example:
- payment milestones at various stages of the project lifecycle
- events or circumstances that may impact the issuance of a certificate.
Using the example contract is optional. You can modify clauses by negotiating with the other party/parties. Add or delete as necessary.
The terms for contracts such as these sit outside of the Nature Repair Market. We recommend you seek independent legal advice to help with drafting a contract suited to your individual circumstance.
There are 2 versions of the example contract – a clean version and one with guidance information.
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