Parties come together for talks on land tenure issues

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said that leaders of agriculture, mining and gas industries met again this week in a bid to foster better relations between explorers and farmers.

Minister Wilson brought the parties together earlier this year and indicated that the State Government was keen to facilitate industry-wide discussions.

“We need to strike the right balance between protecting the rights of landowners and allowing explorers, miners and gas producers access to that land for exploration purposes,” Mr Wilson said.

Minister Wilson initiated the talks in light of the increased exploration and gas production activity arising from the mining boom.

“I look forward to the taskforce reporting back to me later this year,” he said.

The Minister is encouraging industry leaders to reach agreement on a new Code of Practice that would apply to gas producers and miners.

“The Codes will be voluntary at first, but I’ve told industry I’m prepared to make them compulsory if there’s no compliance on either side,” he said.

The taskforce met this week and discussed the Code of Practice as well as compensation processes for when a mine or gas field enters the production stage.

I have asked my Director-General to chair follow-up meetings of the taskforce.

The Minister said his Department would also continue to attend a series of meetings organised by AgForce in the Surat Basin where officers had been able to provide advice on issues relating to the rights of both landholders and explorers.

Meetings have been held in Chinchilla, Miles, Injune, and twice in Wallumbilla.

“We are mindful of the rights of all parties and are working towards a solution that’s in everyone’s best interests.

“Everyone’s got a stake in the long-term sustainable development of the Surat Basin,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819