In accordance with Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act), a Draft REF was prepared by independent consultants for the proposed works.

The REF examines any potential environmental, social, economic, and cumulative impacts of the works and the ways we will mitigate these impacts, including during construction. The REF is an important document to ensure we are considering and protecting our valued marine environment.

The REF considers impacts of the works including influence on any physical and biological, community, natural resource, cultural heritage and matters of national environmental significance.

REF findings include: temporary access and short‐term water quality impacts; short‐term loss of public open space and noise, vibration and amenity impacts; loss of seagrass; risk of dislodgement/dispersal of the aquatic pest (Caulerpa taxifolia; and short‐term biodiversity impacts.

The REF concludes that the works would not result in significant impacts using the proposed mitigation measures. These mitigation and management safeguards incorporated into the REF list the actions required to mitigate environmental impacts during construction.

These actions will be included in a site-specific Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) prepared by the construction Contractor. The Contractor will implement the CEMP during construction to mitigate the environmental risks.