Discussions around Reef regulations and Bioregional planning
NQ Dry Tropics recently hosted two online forums that brought together landholders, Traditional Owners, government representatives and the Landholders Driving Change project panel for discussion on two topics:
- Reef protection regulations
The Queensland Government is reviewing the regulated standards that help reduce sediment and nutrient runoff to the Great Barrier Reef. These standards apply to sugarcane, banana and beef cattle producers in Reef catchments.
Feedback has been sought to inform the statutory review of the regulated standards to determine whether updates are needed to make the standards and supporting documents clearer, easier to comply with, fit for purpose, and based on the latest evidence.
The review is limited to the regulated standards and does not include changes to legislation or prescribed regions.
Stakeholders in Reef catchments were given multiple opportunities to contribute to the review, including workshops, a survey, written submissions, and one-on-one discussions with members of the review team. Public consultation closed on 8 August.
- Bioregional planning – guiding development and protection
Bioregional planning is a new strategic approach to guide development while protecting Queensland’s environment, biodiversity and communities.
The aim of the information session was for the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) to explain the bioregional planning process to the LDC panel.
Planning is underway in:
- Collinsville – wind farming;
- Julia Creek and Richmond – mineral mining; and
- south-east Queensland – urban growth.
Bioregional plans will:
- identify areas where development impacts should be avoided;
- guide managing cumulative environmental impacts; and
- highlight opportunities for conservation and restoration.
The planning process is based on:
- a strong understanding of environmental, social, cultural, and economic values;
- risk assessments for Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES);
- guidance to improve outcomes for MNES; and
- clear frameworks for governance, monitoring, and continual improvement.
This work is supported by a biodiversity mapping methodology developed by the Queensland Government and independently reviewed in 2024.
Plans are being co-designed with communities and industry and are expected to be finalised by mid-2026.
These forums were hosted by the Landholders Driving Change (LDC2) project, funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program.
