The Queensland Parliament has enacted significant legislation to strengthen cooperation between the state’s agriculture, resources, and renewable energy industries.
This landmark legislation focuses on expanding the roles of key institutions responsible for land access, groundwater management, and conflict resolution.
Expanded Roles for Key Institutions
Under the new law, the GasFields Commission Queensland will be rebranded as Coexistence Queensland. Its mandate will broaden to encompass information, engagement, and education services related to land access and coexistence issues across both the resources and renewable energy sectors. Previously, the commission’s scope was limited to the onshore gas industry.
The Office of Groundwater Impact Assessment (OGIA) will now offer advice to government entities on subsurface impacts stemming from petroleum and gas activities. Additionally, the Land Access Ombudsman (LAO) will have an expanded role in assisting stakeholders to resolve a wider array of land access disputes through alternative resolution methods.
Statements from Government Officials
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart emphasized the significance of these reforms, stating that while Queensland’s coexistence framework has been robust, the government is committed to continuous improvement. He highlighted that the expanded roles of Coexistence Queensland, the LAO, and OGIA will address any existing gaps or duplications in services.
Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Minister Mick de Brenni stressed the importance of community engagement in Queensland’s clean energy transition, reaffirming the government’s dedication to working collaboratively with locals and landholders.
A Focus on Sustainable Coexistence
Warwick Squire, CEO of Coexistence Queensland, expressed enthusiasm for the organization’s expanded role in facilitating collaboration between stakeholders and ensuring that industry development is socially responsible, sustainable, and prioritizes community interests.
The legislation also includes amendments to improve processes for assessing and administering resource authorities, along with measures to mitigate the state’s financial risk associated with resource companies’ non-compliance with environmental or rehabilitation obligations.
These reforms are aligned with the Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan and aim to foster stronger relationships between various land uses, ultimately promoting sustainable coexistence and development across the state.