Published Thursday, 20 November, 2008 at 08:30 AM

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Paul Lucas

EXTRA PROTECTION FOR FARMER’S RIGHTS

JOINT RELEASE
DEPUTY PREMIER AND MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNING
AND MINISTER FOR MINES AND ENERGY  

The Bligh Government has stepped in to strengthen the rights of farmers when dealing with mining and exploration companies.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Paul Lucas said a range of new measures were another important step towards managing potential conflicts between farmers and mining companies.

“All Queenslanders stand to gain from the resources boom in these uncertain economic times, but it also presents new challenges,” said Mr Lucas.

“I understand there is considerable concern amongst those on the land that their livelihood and lifestyle could be threatened by exploration and mining.

“Agriculture is of immense importance to Australia and the Bligh Government is committed to making sure farmers get a fair go when dealing with resources companies.

“I am chairing a series of resource community summits starting this week so I’m looking forward to hearing more about these issues and how we may be able to address them.”

The new measures include:

· A single Code of Conduct that clearly spells out the obligations of mining and exploration groups.

This new code will reflect modern agricultural issues such as measures to control the spread of weeds, chemical contamination and standard operating practices for farmers. It will be developed by the Land Access Working Group (LAWG) in conjunction with AgForce and Queensland Resource Council. The LAWG was established by the Bligh Government earlier this year and comprises representatives from agriculture, mining and gas peak bodies.

· Simplified compensation negotiations achieved by the introduction of a standard compensation agreement.

A standard set of provisions for the compensation agreement will be developed with peak bodies. While it may not be applicable for all circumstances a standard agreement should fit most situations and be valuable to all parties.

· The establishment of common user pipeline easements to minimise disruption to agricultural land when feasible.

The Government will investigate the establishment of common infrastructure easements to contain, for example, utilities, transport and telecommunications infrastructure.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said mining and farming had co-existed for many generations and there was no reason why they could not continue to thrive for generations to come.

“Both of these industries are equally important to Queensland. One gives us the food and fibre we need for our daily lives. The other is a key economic driver of the state’s strong economy,” Mr Wilson said.

“That’s why we’ve taken this action. We’re mindful of the rights of all parties. That’s why we’re working towards a solution that is in everyone’s best interests.

“I come from the wheat belt. I know what landowners are going through and I know the challenges they face. My family comes from the land.”

Minister Wilson said a new joint Surat Basin District Office for the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Mines and Energy would be established in Dalby or Roma.

“We’ll have staff in there with their sleeves rolled up ready to help sort out any potential problems. Landowners will be able to talk to them, face to face,” Mr Wilson said.

“Staff will be at the frontline, helping to ensure resource companies are meeting their legal obligations.

“It’s a step in the right direction and is the first of many. The new measures come on top of a range of actions the Bligh Government has already taken to address potential land conflict issues.”

Media enquires:
Deputy Premier - 32248750
Minister for Mines and Energy - 322 51819

Existing Department of Mines and Energy initiatives include:

Land Access Working Group: established bringing together Government agencies with peak industry bodies including AgForce, Queensland Farmers Federation, Queensland Resources Council and the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association to resolve land access concerns.

The working group is:

  • reviewing the adequacy of the current legislative frameworks;
  • considering a code of conduct for land access and the conduct of exploration activities on private land; and
  • examining the whole question of compensation; including procedural rights associated with compensation disputes.
  • addressing other important land access issues such as a single environmental code of practice, improving cross-agency coordination associated with tenure applications and management, pre-qualification of contractors; and rehabilitation obligations.

Land Access Public Forums:

In conjunction with AgForce, DME recently conducted land access public forums in the Surat Basin to provide landholders with information about relevant statutory frameworks relating to coal and gas exploration and the parties’ rights and obligations when accessing land for exploration.

Forums held in Roma, Injune, Miles, Wandoan, Dalby and Felton were all well attended.

The forums addressed issues including:

  • relevant statutory frameworks relating to land access and compensation
  • environmental compliance and securities
  • the environmental impact statement process
  • coal seam gas and water issues

Community Liaison Officer:

The department has employed in Mr Gerry McKie a highly experienced community liaison officer to work directly with landholders and explorers in the Surat Basin to resolve land access issues;

Rights and Obligations:.

· DME has produced a set of new fact sheets available on its website which provides summary information on both mining and petroleum exploration laws and landholders’ and explorers’ rights and responsibilities.

Legal Assistance to Landholders:

· Funding has been provided through the Attorney-General for a Toowoomba-based solicitor to advise landholders on land access issues including compensation.