Mining and farming – planning for the future

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today that the Bligh Government was mindful of the needs of both the mining and farming industries and was working towards a solution that would be in their best interests.

Minister Wilson told State Parliament today that mining and farming had co-existed for many generations and there was no reason why they could not continue to thrive together for generations to come.

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

“We’re mindful of the interests of all parties. That’s why the Bligh Government has stepped in to strengthen the rights of farmers in their dealings with mining and exploration companies,” Mr Wilson said.

The Deputy Premier and Minister Wilson have held mining summits in Dalby and Dysart, key resource regions of Queensland. They will hold another mining summit in Mt Isa on Friday.

“Our summits give key stakeholders a seat at the table. We want to hear from the heartland and listen to local concerns,” he said.

“While we all enjoy the benefits of the resources boom, we won’t turn our back on communities at the coal face, or farmers concerned about an unprecedented demand for access to their land for exploration.

“I come from the wheat belt. I know what landowners are going through. I know the challenges they face. Everyone has a stake in the future of our resource-rich regions and that’s why we’re taking action.

“Earlier this year I set up a taskforce of key agricultural, mining and gas groups to develop a way forward on land access issues.

“On top of this, a number of forums have been held in the Surat Basin to get face-to-face feedback from landowners.

“We’ve appointed a liaison officer to work with them, and have funded the services of a lawyer to give landowners legal advice.

“We’re developing a Code of Conduct for explorers; setting up a joint office with my Department and the Environmental Protection Agency in either Dalby or Roma; and we’re working on a standard compensation agreement to simplify what can be complex negotiations between landowners and resource companies.

“I’m confident we can strike the right balance and work towards a solution that’s in everyone’s best interests.

“This is about looking beyond the horizon, planning for the future, and acting now for people who live and work in communities like Dysart, Moranbah and Dalby.

“Good governments, responsible governments would do nothing less,” he said.

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