The purpose of SoE reporting are to provide accurate, up-to-date and accessible information about environmental and heritage conditions, trends and pressures for the Australian continent, surrounding seas and Australia's external territories. SoE reporting is used to:
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report on major causal factors that are influencing Australia's environment and heritage;
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report on the effectiveness of responses designed to address change;
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identify the issues most relevant to the sustainability of Australia's environment and heritage;
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contribute to public understanding of the state of Australia's environment and heritage;
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identify relevant gaps in information;
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further develop and improve the SoE reporting process; and
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facilitate policy development at all levels of government.