Groundwater-dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) are those ecosystems where any part of the lifecycle of anything involves groundwater. GDEs are ecotones with persistent groundwater supplies. In 2004, GDEs were formally recognised and an atlas developed. Aboriginal stories have been included in this mapping. Threats include groundwater extraction, urbanisation affecting recharge, and climate change. Now, any Environmental Impact Statements for development must address the impact on GDEs.