Vegetation management business as usual

It is business as usual for landholders under Queensland’s vegetation management regulatory framework, Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said today.

“I want to assure landholders and industry that current vegetation management practices remain in operation and there will be no rushed changes to the Vegetation Management Act 1999,” he said.

“I have spoken with AgForce and the Queensland Farmers Federation and assured them they will be part of any consultation.

“I intend to get my boots dirty to see the laws in action for myself and consult broadly.

“I want to see what works well before I consider any options,” he said.

Dr Lynham said current vegetation management practices applied until landowners were notified about changes.

“That includes the 15 self-assessable vegetation management codes for routine, low-risk property management and maintenance activities without the need for a clearing permit,” he said.

“The same seven Area Management Plans and property-scale maps of assessable vegetation (PMAV) still apply.

“Drought-affected landholders can still pull mulga for fodder harvesting purposes to feed livestock.”

Dr Lynham said landholders thinking about undertaking any clearing are encouraged to call the Department of Natural Resources and Mines and discuss any issues with a local vegetation management officer.

More information about vegetation management is available at: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/vegetation/management/

5 March 2015

Media Contact: Gillian Tyrrell 3719 7369