It is business as usual for landholders under the vegetation management regulatory framework, Queensland’s new Natural Resources and Mines Minister Anthony Lynham said this week.
“I want to assure landholders and industry that current vegetation management practices remain in operation and there will be no rushed changes to the Vegetation Management Act 1999,” Dr Lynham said.
“I have spoken with AgForce and the Queensland Farmers Federation and assured them they will be part of any consultation.
“I intend to get my boots dirty to see the laws in action for myself and consult broadly. I want to see what works well before I consider any options.”
Dr Lynham said current vegetation management practices applied until landowners were notified about changes.
“That includes the 15 self-assessable vegetation management codes for routine, low-risk property management and maintenance activities without the need for a clearing permit,” he said.
“The same seven Area Management Plans and property-scale maps of assessable vegetation still apply.
“Drought-affected landholders can still pull mulga for fodder harvesting purposes to feed livestock.”
Dr Lynham said landholders thinking about undertaking any clearing were encouraged to call the Department of Natural Resources and Mines and discuss any issues with a local vegetation management officer.
More information about vegetation management is available on the State Government website
