Adaptive management guidance in Australia: a critique

Adaptive management (AM) is an iterative approach to structured decision-making, typically related to the management of natural resources, that emphasises the importance of ongoing learning and adapting as accrued knowledge reduces system uncertainties. AM is increasingly adopted in proposals seeking regulatory approval to offset uncertainties in expected environmental impacts, particularly in Australia. Here, we investigate and critique the AM guidance of Australian government agencies applied within environmental regulatory oversight, with comparisons to AM guidance from Canada, Denmark and the United States. AM guidance in Australia was found to vary across individual jurisdictions, in the absence of national guidelines. The results found major deficiencies relative to international guidelines, with major AM components often omitted. The significant variability in the AM guidance offered by Australian regulators has arguably led to deficiencies and inconsistent AM applications, as apparent in a review of Australian AM plans currently implemented to manage projects. Without clear, consistent guidance within Australia, AM will continue to be misinterpreted and misused, creating threats to environmental assets within the impact footprint of major developments.