MODULES
Saving species: For landholders and farmers is made up of 8 modules that guide you through the key ideas, challenges, and practical steps involved in threatened species recovery. Each module builds on the last, helping you grow your knowledge, skills, and confidence as you move through the course.
① Introduction to threatened species recovery
This module is all about understanding why species decline and how we can support their recovery through practical, science-based strategies. It explores the connection between species and ecosystem health, and your role in helping to protect and restore biodiversity on your land.
Learning objectives:
> Understand the causes and consequences of species decline
> Explore the principles and strategies of species recovery
> Explore the connection between species recovery and ecosystem health
> Examine the distribution of Australia’s threatened species and role of private landholders in ecosystem recovery
② Ecosystem baselining and monitoring
In this module, you will learn how to set clear baselines, monitor changes over time, and collect reliable data to guide your conservation work. These skills will help ensure your efforts are effective, impactful, and grounded in best practice.
Learning objectives:
> Examine the practices of baselining and monitoring and their role in ecosystem restoration
> Explore the use of data in tailoring restoration goals and strategies to meet site-specific needs
> Consider the key environmental metrics to monitor
> Explore when, why, and how to use different baselining and monitoring methods
③ Invasive species management
In this module, you will learn how to plan, build, and maintain a conservation fence. You’ll understand how site conditions, target species, and key threats shape your design, and gain the tools to ensure your fence remains effective and sustainable over time.
Learning objectives:
> Explore the ecological impacts of invasive species on ecosystems and native fauna and flora
> Examine when, why, and how to implement different interventions to manage invasive species effectively and meet site-specific challenges
> Consider the role of habitat restoration and supplementation in enhancing ecosystem resilience
④ Conservation fencing models
In this module, you will learn how to plan, build, and maintain a conservation fence that truly works. You’ll explore how site conditions, target species, and key threats influence your design, and understand the long-term management needed to ensure your fence remains a sustainable and effective conservation tool.
Learning objectives:
> Assess fencing suitability and impact
> Examine fencing designs and features
> Consider the planning, construction, maintenance, and monitoring of fences
⑤ Applied ecological science and technology
In this module, you will learn how to apply science and technology to boost species recovery. You’ll explore the ecological principles behind conservation, discover core science-driven approaches, and get introduced to technological tools that enhance biodiversity management for greater impact.
Learning objectives:
> Explore the role of ecological science in conservation decision-making and planning
> Investigate the role of technology in enhancing restoration actions
> Examine the evolutionary and genetic barriers that affect threatened species recovery
> Discover the role of citizen science in supporting threatened species recovery
⑥ Community engagement
In this module, you will learn how to plan and deliver effective community engagement for conservation. You’ll define your purpose, identify key audiences, and focus efforts for maximum impact using tools like the Power Map and Impact Scorecard, plus strategies for events, sponsorship, and ongoing engagement.
Learning objectives:
> Understand the importance of engaging with the community to build local support, secure funding, and enhance project success
> Identify key groups, organisations, and structures at national, state, and local levels that can provide resources, partnerships, and support
> Explore strategies to foster collaboration and encourage active community engagement
⑦ Farming and natural capital markets
In this module, you will learn how to combine ecosystem restoration with productive land management. Explore regenerative practices, natural capital markets, and nature-based business models that boost biodiversity, soil health, and farm profitability.
Learning objectives:
> Explore different business models that balance ecological impact with long-term financial sustainability
> Develop a foundational understanding of Natural Capital Markets
> Explore the principles, benefits, and practical applications of regenerative farming
> Explore the key principles of soil-focused farming and their application in improving ecosystem health
⑧ Species and regulatory frameworks
Compliance in conservation helps landholders navigate the legal frameworks behind species recovery and ecosystem restoration. It covers key protections at all levels and guides responsible management of activities like weed control, revegetation, and habitat work.
Learning objectives:
> Examine the federal, state and local legal frameworks that protect flora, fauna and culturally significant areas
> Explore common restoration activities with legal implications
> Consider when and why to partner with experts