DSE is the major body responsible for flora and fauna conservation in Victoria and has established, in conjunction with Viridans Pty Ltd, two of the largest geographic databases on flora and fauna in the world. In line with the understanding that agencies other than DSE, particularly other government groups and environmental consultants, also have a flora and fauna conservation interest and responsibility, DSE has made access to its databases through Viridans products. Any government or non-government organisation, with a bona fide interest in flora and fauna, may purchase a stand-alone package with all the information that is used by DSE biologists provided they sign a standard data-sharing or data-access agreement with DSE. 

The most straightforward method of obtaining this information is via the FIS and VFD but there are other options which include the simpler, cheaper, but almost as detailed packages Just a Minute - Animals and Just a Minute - Plants, or the much less expensive Wild Plants of Victoria or Wild Animals of Victoria.

FIS-VFD Availability: The FIS and VFD may be purchased from Viridans provided a data-sharing agreement has been entered into with the Department of Sustainability and Environment.  The cost will depend upon the number licenses required, training etc.

Data-sharing Agreements: The Department of Sustainability and Environment has standard data-sharing agreements for access to both the FIS and VFD.

Information Services Section
Department of Sustainability and Environment
2/8 Nicholson Street 
East Melbourne, Victoria 3002

Email: biodiversity.info@dse.vic.gov.au