Why map Australia’s vegetation?
Australia’s native vegetation is a rich and fundamental element of our natural heritage. It binds and nourishes our ancient soils; shelters and sustains wildlife; protects streams, wetlands, estuaries, and coastlines; absorbs carbon dioxide and emits oxygen. To ensure the continued survival of native flora in Australia, land managers, scientists and other decision-makers need up-to-date and reliable information. The maintenance and improvement of the National Vegetation Information System (NVIS) is a key initiative designed to meet the needs of those responsible for developing sustainable long-term solutions for Australian landscapes. The need for improved vegetation information in Australia was recognised in the Vegetation Theme in the first National Land and Water Resources Audit, which resulted in the implementation of the NVIS. This theme also developed the NVIS Framework to support the Australian Native Vegetation Assessment 2001.
