Queenslanders could lose say on mining projects, warns Australia’s peak land conservation body

ALCA argues the proposed changes would weaken community participation in decisions affecting their communities and environment, waterways and conservation lands.

This comes as Queensland Parliament's Primary Industries and Resources Committee holds public hearings in Brisbane today (Wednesday 28 October) as part of its inquiry into the Bill.

ALCA Policy Lead Michael Cornish said the proposed changes would dramatically reduce who is eligible to object and risks shutting out expertise that has helped identify important environmental issues in the past.

“Both Queensland’s resources and environment are matters of significant public interest and must be balanced appropriately with legitimate mining interests,” said Mr Cornish.

“Allowing communities, conservation organisations and people with local environmental knowledge to have a meaningful say in decisions that affect Queensland landscapes is vital for the long-term protection of nature.”

ALCA’s submission urges the Queensland Government to reconsider narrowing the list of eligible objectors and replace the proposed ‘125km eligibility zone’ with science-based criteria relating to the actual or potential environmental impact.

Mr Cornish said it was vital that land conservancy organisations, like those represented by ALCA, retained the ability to represent public environmental interests.

“Land being managed for conservation regularly faces encroachment from mining activities and it is the role of land conservancy organisations to monitor and respond to those threats to ensure the long-term protection of nature under Australia’s National Reserve System,” said Mr Cornish.

“Public participation is an important component of transparent, evidence-based governance and helps ensure decision-makers have access to local knowledge and expertise when assessing the impacts of mining activities on our communities and natural environment.”