Does a covenant cover the entire property?
Not necessarily. A covenant can cover all or part of a property.
Are there benefits?
Benefits can include land tax exemption for the covenant area, possible council rate rebates in some areas, and access to advice and support for land management.
How do I find out what applies on my property?
Start with your covenant deed and your Nature Conservation Plan/Operations Plan. If you need help understanding them, contact the program.
Does a conservation covenant make my land public?
No. The land remains privately owned.
Can I still live on my land?
Yes. Covenants are designed with exclusion areas allowing for infrastructure such as houses, sheds and tracks.
Are all activities prohibited?
No. Many activities are allowed; some need approval.
Can covenants be removed?
Covenants are usually established in perpetuity. Changes require formal approval.
Who do I contact if I’m unsure?
Please contact us using the email address below and we will be happy to provide further information about the process, covenants, and how best to protect your land.
What is the process for creating a covenant?
Engage and understand
What is involved?
Understand motivations (protect nature, amenity and views, land tax exemptions, council rates reductions etc)
Discussion with all landowners
Property visit/s
Landowner consent form
Natural values identified - ecological survey
Understanding threats (e.g. weeds, invasive species)
Establishing photo monitoring points
Property visits may be part of ongoing monitoring and compliance
Document preparation
Nature conservation plan describing natural values of property, potential threats and how to best manage the property, standing authorisations for activities
Central Plan Register (CPR) plan to map location
Covenant agreement
Liaison with landowner during document preparation
Final copies signed by landowner and Minister
Covenant protects nature in perpetuity
Covenant registered on title by Land Titles Office
Reserve layer in LISTmap, link to global maps
Ongoing communication with changing landowners
Ongoing communication with fire managers, designers, real estate agents, surveyors, solicitors
Management of landowner records and interaction
Ongoing stewardship and land management
Active and ongoing management of the land to protect natural values (e.g. weed removal, invasive species)
Nature conservation plan contains ongoing management authorisations and advice
Authorisations required for activities not authorised in nature conservation plan
Compliance with covenant agreement and nature conservation plan