A new Queensland bill aimed at streamlining major projects has sparked fears among landowners like Matt and Caitlin Wood, who worry it could hand their 120ha farm to developers. The couple, who run a regenerative agricultural operation on Springbrook mountain, face the possibility of compulsory acquisition under proposed legislation that critics say bypasses existing environmental protections.
What Does the Queensland Bill Propose?
The State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 is currently before a parliamentary inquiry. Its stated purpose is to streamline approval processes for projects deemed strategically significant to the state. However, opponents argue it grants the government unprecedented powers to override laws like the Nature Conservation Act, potentially enabling private developers to acquire land for commercial projects.
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Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill lowers the threshold for compulsory land acquisition, allowing the government to seize property not just for public infrastructure but also for private development. This has raised alarms among rural landowners, particularly those in environmentally sensitive areas like the Gold Coast hinterland.
“We have conservation acts, we have regulations and a private party wanting to develop something has to go through those dedicated requirements,” Matt Wood said. “But if the government deems that, for whatever reason, they want that party to be above that – that seems just ridiculous.”
How Could This Affect Farmers Like the Woods?
The Woods' property sits in the path of a proposed cableway that was first suggested in 1998. If the bill passes, the government could designate the project as a state strategic project, bypassing environmental assessments and acquiring land directly. This would threaten not only their livelihood but also the biodiversity of the rainforest they steward.
“You wouldn’t do this if it wasn’t the lifestyle you want to live,” Caitlin said. “But we wanna make sure that lifestyle isn’t to the detriment of the environment.”
Comparison: Current Law vs. Proposed Bill
| Current Law | Proposed Bill |
|---|---|
| Requires adherence to Nature Conservation Act | Can override conservation laws for strategic projects |
| High threshold for compulsory acquisition | Lower bar for land seizure, including for private development |
| Public consultation and environmental impact assessments | Streamlined process with reduced oversight |
Critics' Concerns and Community Response
Environmental groups and legal experts have voiced strong opposition. They argue the bill undermines decades of environmental protection and could set a dangerous precedent for other states. The parliamentary inquiry is due to release its findings on Friday, and community members are urging the government to reconsider.
Potential Consequences
- Loss of prime agricultural land
- Destruction of World Heritage-listed rainforest
- Erosion of property rights
- Increased corporate influence over land use
What Can Landowners Do?
Landowners in similar situations are advised to stay informed, participate in public consultations, and seek legal advice. The Queensland Farmers' Federation has also called for amendments to protect rural communities.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Queensland bill?
Can the government seize farmland under this bill?
What can landowners do to protect their property?
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