The federal government have drafted guidelines for those seeking approval of their onshore wind farm project under Australia's national environmental law - the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act). It describes the information requirements to support regulatory assessment of their project, and the likely ongoing responsibilities should their project be approved.

The guidance is intended to support “a smooth and efficient regulatory pathway” while maintaining protection for matters of national environmental significance (MNES) listed under EPBC Act. The Biodiversity Council is concerned that the draft fails to deliver better environmental outcomes or reduce regulatory burden for proponents.