IN THIS ARTICLE:
Welcome to Environment Online – Submitting survey data has changed
You’ve landed here because the way biodiversity and marine survey data packages are submitted has changed.
Whether you arrived via the IBSA submissions website, an email or another source, this page explains what’s new and how to submit your data using Environment Online.
What's changed?
From 13 October 2025, all submissions should be made through Environment Online, using the new Index of Surveys for Assessments (ISA).
This replaces the previous Index of Biodiversity Surveys for Assessment (IBSA) and Index of Marine Surveys for Assessment (IMSA) submission processes.
ISA allows you to:
- submit data packages directly linked to applications or referrals under Part IV and Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986
- use one streamlined platform for both land-based biodiversity and marine survey data.
About the Index of Surveys for Assessments
ISA brings together biodiversity and marine survey data to:
- improve access for government, industry and the community
- support better environmental outcomes
- simplify the submission process.
You can still search, view, and download data from the IBSA portal and IMSA portal for now.
For more information, go to the Index of Surveys for Assessment webpage.
Getting started with Environment Online
New to Environment Online?
- Create an account.
- If you’re acting on behalf of an organisation or another entity, you must be authorised before your submission can be processed. Refer to the guidance on requesting authorisation from an entity.
- View the user guides and instructional videos below.
Already have an account?
- Log in to Environment Online.
- If you’re acting on behalf of an organisation or another entity, you must be authorised before your submission can be processed. Refer to the guidance on requesting authorisation from an entity.
- View the user guides and instructional videos below.
How to prepare your data package
Before submitting
- Read the Procedure: Preparing data packages for the Index of Surveys for Assessments (includes the data standards).
- Prepare all required documents and data files.
- You can submit in one session or save and return later.
Resources
- Example IBSA data package
- IBSA shapefile templates
- IMSA field names (xlsx)
- IMSA geodatabase
- IMSA shapefiles
View the ISA Data Licence Statement.
Guides and instructional videos
User guides
Instructional videos
- Introduction to Environment Online
- How to submit survey data packages for the ISA
- How to submit an application, report or request
Frequently asked questions
How do I access Environment Online?
You’ll need to create an account first. Then, follow the steps in the Get started guidance.
What ISA services are available in Environment Online?
Environment Online now supports the full lifecycle of survey data through the ISA:
- Submit Survey Data online – Proponents or delegated Consultants can create and upload survey data packages directly in Environment Online.
- Spatial Data Uploads – Packages include validated shapefiles (GDA2020 MGA projection) and required data using the GIS functionality in Environment Online.
- Validation & Review – ISA Officers review submissions, manage edit requests, and either accept or reject packages.
- Resubmission & Updates – Proponents/Consultants can update and resubmit packages.
- Publishing – Accepted survey data is published on IBSA/IMSA portals by ISA officers and subsequently the corporate GIS layer for use in assessments by Regulatory Officers.
- Regulatory Access – Regulatory Officers access the accepted ISA data directly in Environment Online to inform assessments.
Where can I find guidance or instructions on how to submit survey data packages (biodiversity or marine)?
View the guide on How to submit survey data packages for the ISA or watch the instructional video.
Where can I find instructions for preparing survey data packages?
View the Procedure: Preparing data packages for the Index of Surveys for Assessments
How can I check the status of my submission?
Log in to Environment Online and go to the ‘My Environment’ page to view your submission status. You’ll also receive email notifications if more information is needed.
How can I contact a departmental staff member?
You can submit a query or request a meeting using the enquiry form.
Where can I get help with logging in or other technical issues?
Please contact customer support by submitting an enquiry form or calling us on 1800 161 176 (Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm)
Who can submit survey data packages in Environment Online?
Proponents can submit directly, or delegate Consultants to act on their behalf. Delegations are managed in Environment Online under “Access and Delegations.”
What file formats are accepted for spatial data?
Survey data packages require zipped shapefiles in GDA2020 MGA projection, with valid geometries (no nulls or self-intersections).
What happens if my submission is rejected?
You will receive an email explaining the reason for rejection (e.g., metadata issue, invalid shapefile). You can update your package and resubmit via Environment Online.
Contact us
- Submit an enquiry form
- Call us on 1800 161 176 (Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm)