Private landholders are already looking after the conservation values on their land in a range of ways – from the purchase of whole properties and large scale Indigenous Protected Areas to the setting aside of smaller areas for critical habitat. The Territory Government recognises that all these efforts are legitimate and have an expanded role to play.

Territory Eco-link is about helping landholders who want to protect and manage conservation values on their own land. There are no compulsory land acquisitions. Landholders are able to decide whether they want to protect the special conservation values on their land forever, or utilise one of the other options for a shorter term with more flexible protection. Protection can be applied to the whole of a property or to specific parts of a property that have special conservation value.

Landowners who contribute to the Territory Eco-link project, by helping to protect and conserve the Territory’s unique natural values will be recognised as a Territory Eco-link Partner and can display the ‘Territory Eco-link Partner’ sign on their property.

Conservation Covenants

Voluntary Conservation Covenants are used when landholders wish to protect special natural areas of their property for the future.

A conservation covenant provides guidelines and places limits on how the special area is to be managed.  These guidelines ensure that the area and the native plants and animals within it are protected into the future.

Covenants are flexible; they are designed in such a way that the practical needs of the land holder and the management practices that will best sustain the special area are considered.  Activities that cause minimal harm may continue within the area.

Covenants can apply to part of all of a property, can be permanent or for an agreed term, and are legally binding once registered on the land title.  Ownership and control of the land remains with the landholder.

A conservation covenant:

  • Ensures protection of special areas for the long term,
  • Ensures a subsequent purchaser is aware of the land’s special values and status,
  • Helps if you want to apply for grants and get support for environmental work,
  • Provides an opportunity for you to access expertise in environmental management and
  • Provides recognition and proof or your commitment to good land management.

You can find more information about conservation covenants in the Voluntary Conservation Covenants on Private Land pamphlet (pdf 2.3Mb)
Managing your property under a conservation agreement is a way for you to play a valuable role in the conservation of our unique Territory environment.

Land for Wildlife

If you live in the Darwin rural or Alice Springs areas and would like to conserve your property's special conservation values, but don't want to sign a legal agreement, you can register your property with a Land for Wildlife program.  

Land for Wildlife is a free voluntary program by which landowners who wish to manage areas of their property for wildlife habitat are recognised for their efforts. Participants have access to support and assistance with regard to habitat management, protection and restoration through the Land for Wildlife Coordinator. The program also provides a link with like-minded people and the chance to network and share ideas through field days, workshops and other activities.

For more information contact the Land for Wildlife Co-ordinator in your area:

Darwin rural area
Land for Wildlife Co-ordinator
Greening Australia (NT) Inc
Zoe Carmichael
125 Thorak Road, Darwin NT 0820 
P: (08) 8947 3793
zoe.carmichael@nt.greeningaustralia.org.au
www.greeningaustralia.org.au/community/nt

Alice Springs area
Land for Wildlife and Garden for Wildlife Coordinator
Low Ecological Services P/L 
Ph: 8955 5222
LFW@lowecol.com.au
www.lowecol.com.au