About the Agency
The creation of the Agency in 2005, and its particular combination of functions, reflects a commitment to integrating research into the natural environment, our culture and history and making this information easily accessible to the public. The range of functions reflects the importance government and community place on the Territory’s natural and cultural assets.
This Agency’s job is to better understand the Territory’s biophysical environments, our diverse society, complex social history and artistic capability and to encourage excellence and participation in sporting pursuits so that Territorians have an opportunity to use these natural and cultural resources as a source of inspiration, innovation and personal and economic growth.
In August 2008, Sport and Recreation and the Northern Territory Library functions transferred to the Agency, renaming the Agency to Department of Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport (NRETAS).
The Agency is responsible for conserving, enhancing and ensuring best possible access to, and enjoyment of, the Territory’s natural and cultural assets. This includes native wildlife and habitats, renewable natural resources including water and natural landscapes, historic buildings and places, scientific, literary and cultural collections, sport and recreation development opportunities as well as promotion and development of strong, creative communities.