The Natural Resources Commission is an independent statutory body set up under the Natural Resources Commission Act 2003.
We are part of the NSW Premier's portfolio of affiliated agencies. The Governor of NSW appoints the Commissioner who reports to the Premier for functions under the Act.
Our role
Our role is to give clear, evidence-based advice to the NSW Government. We use the latest science and research, and proven methods, to solve problems and guide decisions.
Natural resource management benefits NSW. It supports healthy communities, strong industries and thriving environments. Natural resources are limited and their management is complex and constantly changing.
Our strategic priorities
Legislative functions
We have legislative responsibilities to improve how NSW manages water, soil, native plants and biodiversity. Our work includes:
- Advising on priorities – We recommend strategic and investment priorities for natural resource management.
- Auditing and reviewing – We check plans and programs to make sure they meet standards and deliver results.
- Designing programs – We provide advice on how programs should be structured and implemented.
- Leading major inquiries – We conduct major reviews in areas such as forestry and emergency management.
- Reviewing outcomes – We examine the social, environmental and economic results of water sharing plans.
- Auditing water plans – We check how water management plans are put into action.
- Resolving complex issues – We find solutions when priorities conflict.
- Auditing land service strategies – We review Local Land Services’ state and local strategic plans.
- Setting standards and targets – We recommend statewide benchmarks for natural resource management.
- Improving knowledge – We advise on research priorities and arrange for information to be collected and shared.
How we work
We work openly and in partnership with others to give advice in a complex and changing environment. This involves:
Consulting widely with stakeholders
We work with communities, industry and Aboriginal groups to shape our advice.
See Stakeholder Engagement Strategy and Aboriginal Engagement Strategy
We conduct Have Your Say consultations from time to time. See our Submissions policy.
Accessing expert knowledge and panels
We work with expert panels and use the best available science to guide decisions.
Keeping skilled and experienced staff
Our team's expertise includes ecology, water management, economics, cultural knowledge, forest science, social science, public policy and audit.
See Meet our commissioners and team and Careers pages.
Leading improvements and sharing new ideas
We share research and set better standards for monitoring and management.
See Research notes and publications.
Access to information and corporate documents
We hold information such as audits, reviews, research reports, program advice and corporate documents including:
For information on documents tabled in Parliament, Disclosure log, Government contracts and privacy, see Privacy and information access.
For details on how to request information under GIPA, including informal and formal access options, see Privacy and information access.
Our structure and people
We are a part of the Premier's portfolio of affiliated agencies. The Commission meets as required, which is typically once a month.
See Meet our team page for more about our people, including the Commissioner and our leadership team.
Also see our Executive structure (August 2025)
Contact the Natural Resources Commission
Our team welcomes your feedback and enquiries.
Online: contact form
Phone: (02) 9228 4844
Email: nrc@nrc.nsw.gov.au