Abstract
Biosis Pty Ltd was commissioned by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited to complete a preliminary desktop biodiversity and constraints assessment of the study area proposed for the development of the Greater Gippsland Offshore Wind Project. The objectives of this assessment were to identify potential ecological values and constraints, assess risks and potential impacts to ecological values and identify possible mitigations. The primary focus of the report is on the terrestrial environment, freshwater aquatic systems and shorebird communities. However, for completeness and where required, marine fauna (particularly seabirds) have been included within the report. This assessment has been conducted with a view to inform project referrals under both the Commonwealth of Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and Victoria’s Environment Effects Act 1978 (EE Act).