Department overview

Our department recognises the enormous value a clean environment, innovative society and economy, and vibrant culture contributes to our lives.

As a diverse organisation, the department brings together key areas of work to achieve our objectives for a better Queensland.

By being effective leaders and partners in managing, protecting and restoring Queensland’s natural environment and heritage, we help ensure the health and prosperity of current and future generations.

A summary of the department’s objectives and key strategies to achieve these outcomes is outlined in the department’s strategic plan (PDF, 306.4KB) .

As part of our commitment to eliminating domestic and family violence in Queensland, the department is a White Ribbon Australia accredited workplace.

Environment

Responsibility:

  • protect and manage our parks, forests and the Great Barrier Reef for current and future generations
  • enhance Queensland’s ecosystems
  • conserve and protect Queensland’s biodiversity and threatened species
  • protect significant heritage places
  • implement improved waste management and resource recovery
  • develop and deliver programs supporting climate action
  • avoid, minimise or mitigate impacts to the environment.

Science

Responsibility:

  • lead the development of science strategy for government
  • deliver scientific expertise to protect and manage our environment and natural resource base
  • support the development of Queensland’s science sector.

Youth Affairs

Responsibility:

  • drive the government’s policy and program direction for young people in Queensland
  • oversee and report on the delivery of the Queensland Youth Strategy
  • deliver a range of youth programs such as Queensland Youth Week and the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
  • provide opportunities for the voices of young people to be heard by the Queensland Government through Speak Out and other initiatives
  • provide youth strategy and engagement advice across government.