Our values and conduct

We adopt the NSW Public Sector and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water values as our underpinning values. In addition, we embrace the values of respect and fairness.

Our behaviour and actions will be in keeping with the department’s Code of Ethics and Conduct and Compliance Policy.

Helping people comply

We recognise community diversity and acknowledge the breadth of expertise, experiences and values amongst the people we work with.

In working with the community, we seek to respect people’s circumstances and understand community perceptions of conservation values. We will work with the community, providing information and education where required, to encourage the conservation and protection of NSW environment and heritage.

Focus on conservation outcomes

We follow a graduated approach to compliance and enforcement to protect the environment and heritage in New South Wales. Wherever possible, our officers will deliver compliance actions and regulatory responses that are appropriate and proportionate to the level of harm to environment and heritage values.

We will also publicise important regulatory outcomes to demonstrate our commitment to conserving these values and to deter offences within the community.

Regulating firmly and fairly

We enforce the laws we administer professionally, consistently and fairly. We will ensure transparent and evidence-based compliance decisions. We will regularly evaluate compliance and enforcement policies and approaches to achieve these aims.