Australian Environmental Stewardship
An academic exploration of the mandate, structure, and digital resources of the Australian Department of the Environment and Energy (2016-2020).
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Departmental Overview
Departmental Identity
The Department of the Environment and Energy (DEE) was a significant Australian government department operating between 2016 and 2020. It was tasked with overseeing critical national responsibilities related to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and energy policy.[1]
Historical Context
Established on 19 July 2016 by the Turnbull government following the 2016 federal election, the DEE succeeded the Department of the Environment.[1] Its operational tenure concluded on 1 February 2020, when its functions were reorganized under new departmental structures.[2]
Jurisdiction and Headquarters
As a federal entity, the department operated under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia. Its primary administrative headquarters were located at the John Gorton Building, King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, in Canberra.[4]
Scope of Responsibilities
Environmental Mandate
The department's environmental portfolio encompassed a broad range of critical areas, including:
- Environment protection and the conservation of biodiversity.
- Administration of the Australian Antarctic Territory and the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands.
- Air quality management and urban environment policies.
- Climate change adaptation strategy, coordination, and community action.
- Environmental information, research, and protection initiatives.
- Management of natural, built, and cultural heritage.
- Environmental water use and resources.
Energy Policy Focus
In addition to environmental matters, the DEE held significant responsibilities concerning national energy policy, including:
- Energy efficiency initiatives and industrial energy applications.
- Development and coordination of domestic climate change policy.
- Greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption reporting.
- Greenhouse gas abatement programs.
- National energy market operations (electricity and gas).
- National fuel quality standards.
- Renewable energy targets, policy, regulation, and technology development.
Organizational Structure
Ministerial Leadership
The department operated under the oversight of relevant Commonwealth Ministers. Initially, the portfolio was managed by ministers such as Melissa Price (Minister for the Environment) and Angus Taylor (Minister for Energy). Later, Sussan Ley assumed the role of Minister for the Environment.[1]
Departmental Executive
The administrative head of the Department of the Environment and Energy was its Secretary, Finn Pratt AO PSM. The department was staffed by public servants from the Australian Public Service, responsible for implementing government policy and programs.[4]
Departmental Evolution
Formation and Dissolution
The Department of the Environment and Energy was formally established on 19 July 2016, consolidating environmental and energy portfolios. It ceased to exist as a distinct entity on 1 February 2020, following an administrative reshuffle by the Morrison government.[2]
Reorganization
Upon its dissolution, the department's environmental functions were merged with the Department of Agriculture to form the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. Concurrently, its energy-related responsibilities were transferred to the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.[3]
Digital Resources and Databases
Online Information Hub
The DEE's official website served as a repository for extensive data and applications related to its diverse responsibilities. This included databases and web applications covering biodiversity, climate change, cultural heritage, and environmental protection.[7]
Underwater Cultural Heritage
A notable resource hosted by the DEE was the Australasian Underwater Cultural Heritage Database (AUCHD). This searchable database cataloged shipwrecks, aircraft, and other submerged cultural artifacts, also serving as the official register for protected underwater cultural heritage under the Underwater Cultural Heritage Act 2018.[6]
Related Entities
Associated Bodies
The Department of the Environment and Energy was connected to several key governmental and statutory bodies responsible for specific areas of environmental and heritage management. These included:
- Director of National Parks
- Parks Australia
- Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA)
- Waste management initiatives within Australia.
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References
References
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Academic Disclaimer
Important Notice
This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence for educational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended as an academic overview and not as a definitive or exhaustive record.
This content does not constitute official government advice or professional consultation. Users should consult official government sources and qualified professionals for current and specific information regarding Australian government departments, environmental policy, or energy regulations. The creators are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.