Hot off the press: NB Council reviewing their Environmental Policy in line with the Federally Adopted Nature Policy!

Last night marked an important moment for our community and for the future of local environmental conservation. At the Northern Beaches Council meeting, a unanimous vote confirmed that the Federal Government’s Nature Strategy 2024–2030 will be formally considered in the development of Council’s updated environmental policy — a policy currently under review and due for completion mid-year. This is more than just a procedural update. It represents a meaningful shift in how nature conservation is approached at a local level.

From Optional to Essential

The federally adopted Nature Strategy 2024–2030 introduces a clear and powerful direction:
nature-positive action is no longer optional — it is essential.

This includes aligning with global efforts such as the United Nations’ 30 x 30 target — protecting 30% of land and sea by 2030 — and embedding restoration and conservation into decision-making at every level of government.

For communities like ours, this matters.

It means that initiatives focused on conserving and restoring environments are no longer seen as “nice to have,” but as a core responsibility of the local government.

What This Means for Bongin Bongin Bay

For Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay, this is a significant step forward.

Our vision to see Bongin Bongin Bay recognised as a marine sanctuary by the end of 2027 has always been grounded in science, community support, and a shared belief that this is a place worth safeguarding.

With Council now considering a framework that prioritises nature-positive outcomes, we are seeing stronger alignment between:

Local policy
National strategy
Community-led environmental action

This alignment builds a more solid foundation for our work and reinforces what our northern beaches community has been advocating for all along.

A Collective Effort

Moments like this don’t happen in isolation.

They are the result of ongoing advocacy, community engagement, and the collective voice of people who care deeply about the future of our coastline.

To everyone who has supported this journey — by showing up, speaking up, and staying engaged — this progress belongs to you too.

Looking Ahead

While there is still work to be done, last night’s development signals a positive shift in momentum.

It reflects a growing community demand that living positively with nature around us and restoring places like Bongin Bongin Bay to its former glory is not only necessary but welcome. We understand that this is the way to preserve our way of living on the amazing Northern Beaches

And as Council continues to shape its environmental policy in the months ahead, we remain committed to working constructively, collaboratively, and with the long-term health of our Bay at heart.

Together, we move one step closer to a future where Bongin Bongin Bay is safeguarded for generations to come.

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