Publications

Secretary’s introduction

Welcome to the first Triple Bottom Line Report (TBL Report) of the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage.

In our first TBL Report, we have reported on our 2003–04 environmental, social and economic performance. The report communicates our performance and commitments to our staff, to industry, to government and to the wider community.

Managing for sustainability is simply part of good management. Internationally, there is a strong correlation between business success and improved reporting practices. I am pleased to say that this report shows how practical initiatives such as environmental management systems can deliver better performance outcomes and help us achieve our corporate objectives.

Open and honest reporting is a key element of better management, in both the public and private sectors. We give advice to industry and government about reporting and managing for sustainability. This report demonstrates our principles in action.To guarantee the integrity of this TBL Report, it was verified by the Australian National Audit Office. The external auditor verified the five key environmental indicators audited without qualification. This is an excellent result for a first report.

This is a report about the efforts of all staff in our organisation to produce better environmental, social and economic outcomes. While we have some significant achievements to report in areas such as energy and greenhouse, the report identifies areas for further improvement. By setting clear goals, and reporting these publicly, we have a plan of action.

I look forward to seeing the results of all our efforts in meeting these goals over the next year.

David Borthwick
Secretary
Department of the Environment and Heritage

September 2004