Australian farmers raise concerns over mining and environmental law reforms

Agricultural groups and political figures in Australia are debating the impact of new environmental and mining legislation on landholder rights.

In Queensland, the proposed State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 has drawn criticism from farm lobby groups. Critics express concern regarding the potential erosion of property rights as projects designated as ‘of state significance’ may override local interests. However, Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie defended the bill, stating it would unleash billions of dollars in economic prosperity and includes safeguards such as mandatory six-month consultation periods and parliamentary oversight.

Separately, the Nationals are calling for a one-year delay in the rollout of federal environmental law reforms. The National Farmers' Federation and AgForce have raised concerns regarding the implementation of changes to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. Producers have reported confusion over how new National Environmental Standards and the regulatory powers of the National Environmental Protection Agency will affect routine agricultural activities, including land clearing and sediment run-off management.