AgForce is calling on the Queensland Government to strengthen safeguards for agricultural landholders before progressing proposed changes to the state's mining approvals framework.
AgForce CEO Niki Ford said while the organisation supported efforts to streamline mining approvals and reduce unnecessary duplication, the proposed reforms must not come at the expense of landholder rights, particularly where agricultural land and water resources could be affected.
"AgForce supports responsible resource development and a more efficient approvals process, but landholders must not be left without fair, transparent and adequate protections," Ms Ford said.
"Producers need confidence that their concerns will be heard and that genuine impacts on their land, water and livelihoods will be properly considered."
In its submission on the Mineral Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, AgForce has called for stronger safeguards around objection rights, access to the Land Court and the protection of agricultural water interests.
A key concern is the proposed 125-kilometre eligibility zone, which could prevent landholders outside that boundary from formally objecting to mining developments, even where their water resources may be affected.
"Water impacts don't stop at an arbitrary line on a map," Ms Ford said.
"A producer may be well outside the 125-kilometre eligibility zone but still face significant impacts on their water supply, agricultural operations or future development."
"Where landholders can demonstrate a genuine and identifiable water interest that may be materially affected, they should have a formal pathway to object rather than being limited to making a submission simply because they fall outside the 125-kilometre zone."
AgForce is also concerned about proposed changes that would give the Resources Minister greater discretion over whether objections are referred to the Land Court.
"We recognise that not every objection needs a court hearing, but where there are significant disputes involving water, competing land uses or impacts on agricultural operations, there must be a clear pathway to independent consideration," Ms Ford said.
"Decisions about whether a matter goes to the Land Court should be guided by clear criteria, not left solely to the minister to decide."
AgForce raised similar concerns about the level of ministerial discretion under the recent critical minerals reforms and believes clear criteria and appropriate checks and balances are essential when such powers are provided to ministers.
AgForce is also seeking clearer notification requirements to ensure affected landholders understand their rights and how to participate in the approvals process.
"This is not about putting unnecessary barriers in the way of mining development. It's about getting the balance right between efficient approvals and protecting the legitimate interests of Queensland producers," Ms Ford said.
"We urge the Government and the Primary Industries and Resources Committee to carefully consider the concerns raised through submissions and ensure the final legislation delivers a fair, transparent and workable system for everyone involved."
