About the Commission

• Strategic plan (July 2023)
• Annual Report 2022-2023
• Organisation structure

Our purpose

Managing our natural resources well benefits all of NSW and ensures healthy and robust communities, environments and industries now and into the future. Managing finite resources is challenging, with complex and ever-evolving issues.

We are an independent body and provide robust, evidence-based advice to help the NSW Government address these issues using the latest science, research and best practice.

Our strategic priorities

To achieve the above purpose, we have the following strategic priorities:

• independent advice on complex issues
• improved evidence base for decisions on forest management
• oversight of water planning and implementation
• audit and other evaluations
• corporate services and management excellence.

How we work

To provide independent, evidence-based advice in a contested environment, we use a comprehensive process that includes:

• engaging in transparent collaborative approaches, consulting widely with all stakeholders using a no-surprises approach
• accessing the best-available knowledge, including the use of expert panels
• retaining the highest quality people
• encouraging continuous improvement and thought leadership.

What we do

We have specific legislative functions relating to improving management of water, soil, native vegetation and biodiversity including:

• advising on strategic or investment priorities
• undertaking audits and reviews
• advising on program design
• undertaking significant inquiries and assessments, for instance, into forestry or emergency management
• reviewing the triple bottom line outcomes achieved by water sharing plans
• auditing implementation of water management plans
• assisting in the reconciliation of particularly complex issues
• conducting audits of Local Land Services’ state and local strategic plans
• recommending state-wide standards and targets
• advising on priorities for research and arranging for information to be gathered and disseminated.

Our people and leadership structure

We are a part of the Premier and Cabinet cluster. The Commission meets as required, which is typically once a month.

The Commissioner is responsible for making decisions related to governing the Commission and providing advice to the NSW Government. The Commissioner is appointed by the Governor of NSW for up to five years and is responsible to the Premier of NSW for exercising functions under the Natural Resources Commission Act 2003.

Assistant Commissioners are appointed to support the Commissioner.

The Executive Director is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of the Commission programs, administration and financial affairs.