Mulga South Project

Mulga South Project is a human-induced regeneration project located in South West Queensland, approximately 100km south-east of Quilpie. It was registered in April 2016 and covers 48,803.89ha.

Human-induced regeneration projects involve establishing permanent, even-aged native forests by facilitating the regrowth of native vegetation on land where it was previously suppressed for at least 10 years. To meet standard methodology requirements, proponents must cease prior suppression activities, such as mechanical or chemical clearing, and carefully manage the timing and extent of livestock grazing. This allows in-situ seed sources, including rootstock and lignotubers, to naturally regenerate into native forest.

The South West Queensland region is well-known for its broadacre sheep and cattle grazing operations. The area experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by low and highly variable rainfall. The soils are typically composed of red earths, sandy loams, and some clay floodplains, which are highly suitable for supporting the region's native Mulga (Acacia aneura) scrubland.

Originally registered under the name 'Climate Friendly Aggregation Project No. 2', the project was reportedly contracted to deliver 3 million carbon offsets following the third Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) auction in 2016. The project expanded its boundaries via an area variation in January 2017 and officially changed its name to the Mulga South Project in February 2020. Carbon credits generated by this project have been actively utilized by major Australian corporations; for instance, both Australia Post and beverage company Lion Pty Ltd retired offsets from this project to help achieve their 2020-21 Climate Active carbon neutral certifications. More recently, in March 2024, the proponent structure was varied from a partnership between St. John Smith and Corporate Carbon Solutions Pty Ltd to solely St. John Hamilton Joseph Smith, with Climate Friendly Pty Ltd acting as the project agent.