Overview
We are seeking your feedback on draft Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) information and draft survey guidelines for seals, specifically the:
Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus)
Long-nosed/New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri)
Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea).
This work provides information for proponents and regulators to support environmental impact assessments under the EPBC Act. This includes information about:
Important habitat areas
Species ecology
Mitigation and avoidance measures
Impact assessment considerations.
The documents have been informed by a literature review and new research about seal behaviour and ecology.
The survey guidelines will assist proponents to provide consistent, high quality, and suitable information to support the preparation of assessment documentation.
Adhering to the information is not mandatory.
Proponents that do apply the information are likely to have a smoother assessment experience.
This work is funded by the Australian Government’s Renewables Environmental Research Initiative (RERI). You can find out more about the RERI here: The Renewables Environmental Research Initiative - DCCEEW
Consultation documents
For consultation:
Draft EPBC Act information for seals and offshore wind [PDF 1.7MB]
Draft EPBC Act information for seals and offshore wind [DOCX 2.8MB]
Draft National survey guidelines for seals [1.7MB]
Draft National survey guidelines for seals [DOCX 4.5MB]
Supporting information:
Review of potential impacts on pinnipeds in Australia from offshore wind farms [PDF].
Have your say
To have your say:
Read the draft EPBC Act information and draft survey guidelines
Take our survey now
Submit your feedback by 5pm, Wednesday, 24 June 2026.
