Apply for a scientific licence (biodiversity conservation)

Introduction

You'll need a licence under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 before you undertake an activity for scientific, educational or conservation purposes that is likely to result in one or more of the following:

• harm to any protected animal, or to an animal that is a threatened species or is part of a threatened ecological community
• harm to any protected native plant, or any plant that is a threatened species or is part of a threatened ecological community
• damage to an area of outstanding biodiversity value
• damage to a habitat of a threatened species or ecological community.

You'll also need a licence if you plan to:

• collect voucher specimens for identification purposes
• pick cuttings or whole plants, or
• collect seed.

What you need

• your qualifications
• your concession card details (if applicable)
• details of your organisation, employer or university (for projects by academic staff and students) including ABN and/or ACN
• the personal details and contact information for collaborators or staff who will work independently under the licence as associates
• a list of referees who can verify details in the application
• the specific locations you want to conduct your research including anywhere across National Parks and Wildlife Service managed lands or other areas
• details of the species, populations or communities that may be affected by your activities and the likely impacts of the project
• your payment.

To make sure you have all the information and documents you need to complete your application, refer to Apply for a scientific licence.

How to apply

1. Gather the required information.
2. Select the 'Apply online' button.
3. Log in or create an account.
4. Follow the prompts to apply for a scientific licence.

Payment methods

There is a fee for the initial licence and any subsequent renewal(s) of that licence.

You can pay online by credit or debit card (Mastercard or Visa).