Development of the Report

The Early Stages

In 2004 the project commenced with preliminary research, planning, development of a discussion paper for consultation within the environment portfolio, establishment of governance arrangements and initial preparation of the framework to guide development of the report.

In 2005, following extensive public consultation, the framework was developed and tabled in Parliament. A methodology was compiled to assist the SoE team through each stage of report development. Fact sheets were prepared as a test for the framework and methodology. A detailed analysis of the relationship between issues to be reported was undertaken to map the issues to be included in the report. Work began on scoping sections of the report, including consideration of the best way to report issues, the questions to be answered in the report, potential indicators to be used and sources of data.

Drafting, Consultation and Review

In 2006, following on from the early scoping, work commenced on identifying and assessing indicators, sourcing data, and analysis for the first stages of the report. A Communications Strategy, outlining the timing and content of key deliverables, available to the public was also been prepared in 2006. In 2007 and 2008 members of the SoE reporting team applied their extensive experience in research and writing to prepare many sections of the report.

The Commissioner prepared the SoE report in consultation with a range of stakeholders, including government departments, academics and experts. These stakeholders provided expert assistance and advice in determining the issues for reporting, choice of indicators and access to data as well as providing critical comment on drafts.

1. Content authors – Members of the SoE reporting team consulted with many experts during scoping, research and data analysis stages. They also sought comment from stakeholders ensuring that the final product is accurate and useful.

2. Expert Reference Groups - Members of these groups, from government, environmental non-government organisations, academia and industry, contributed to the development of report sections and also reviewed those sections. The Commissioner met with these groups to discuss policy responses to the environmental issues reported.

3. Peer reviewers - Following the review by Expert Reference Groups each section of the SoE report was independently reviewed by selected experts in their field.

4. Commissioner’s Reference Group - The Commissioner and members of the SoE reporting team briefed the Commissioner’s Reference Group on progress and sought their advice on drafts and proposed recommendations.

5. Government consultation – The Commissioner presented the report as a draft to key government stakeholders in mid 2008. The final report was prepared in consideration of the feedback received.