AgForce is taking its campaign for changes to federal environmental regulations that better reflect the realities of agricultural production to regional Queensland with a statewide EPBC Roadshow.
Led by AgForce’s Policy team, the roadshow will allow producers to understand what the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act reforms mean for their business, as well as engage directly with the National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
AgForce CEO Niki Ford said understanding the impact of the Act had never been more important for primary producers.
“For the past year, AgForce has advocated strongly against regulations it says are impractical, overly restrictive and risk creating unintended perverse environmental outcomes,” Ms Ford said.
“We maintain that productive land management must remain central to any regulatory framework affecting Queensland agriculture.
“These practical information sessions will equip farmers with practical information while also creating an opportunity for them to provide direct feedback on areas where improvements are needed.”
The Roadshow will be free for AgForce members.
Sessions will provide an overview of the proposed EPBC reforms and AgForce’s counter demands, while also exploring key issues like the 15-year rule, continuing use exemptions and the new National Environment Standards (NES) including Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES).
Compliance requirements, risk management and the differences between Commonwealth and State regulation will also be discussed.
At most locations, AgCarE CEO Mark Pawsey will introduce NatureLedger, a practical tool designed to help producers understand environmental values on their properties and make informed land management decisions.
In some regions, the program will also include briefings on Fire Management with Rural Fire Services Queensland, alongside AgForce Policy guidance on Land Use Protection, including third party access for coal seam gas, renewables, renewables and critical minerals.
The Roadshow begins in Durong on Monday September 14, with additional dates in Millmerran on September 16, St George September 29, Muckadilla September 30, Longreach October 6, Cloncurry October 9, Quilpie October 12, Augathella October 13, Rolleston November 4 and Clarke Creek November 5.
The Roadshow will also visit the North East in 2027, with tentative dates scheduled for Eiansleigh on April 27 and Charters Towers on April 29.
Ms Ford said AgForce was encouraging producers to attend and contribute practical, on-the-ground feedback to help inform ongoing discussions with the EPA and policymakers.
“This is an opportunity for producers to ensure the realities of farming and grazing businesses are understood by decision-makers,” she said.
“AgForce will continue advocating for sensible, workable environmental regulation while helping producers navigate the laws as they currently stand.”
Producers can register for the Roadshow here.
