Fresh Start For Queensland's Private Protected Areas

• Queenslanders are invited to have their say on expanding private protected areas through the Crisafulli Government's new discussion paper.
• Private protected areas account for around one third of Queensland's total land-based protected areas.
• The Crisafulli Government is committed to improving and growing protected area partnerships with private landholders.

The Crisafulli Government has invited Queenslanders to help shape the future of private protected areas as part of its commitment to boosting Queensland's protected area estate through strategic acquisitions and voluntary partnerships with landholders.

A Fresh Start for Private Protected Areas - Discussion Paper has been released marking the first step in developing a better strategy for protected area expansion in Queensland.

Labor promised to protect 17 per cent of Queensland but, after nearly a decade, delivered only around one per cent growth.

The Crisafulli Government has committed to delivering an increase in Queensland's protected areas within this term of government, matching what Labor achieved in three terms.

Private protected areas, like nature refuges and special wildlife reserves, make up around a third of Queensland's total terrestrial protected areas, which currently cover 14.9 million hectares.

Private protected areas are created through voluntary agreements between landholders and the Government to safeguard lands with significant environmental value, while allowing landholders to retain ownership and use of the land.

Minister for the Environment Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was committed to working with farmers and landholders as environmental stewards to protect Queensland's natural and cultural heritage.

"We need a fresh start to grow our protected areas," Minister Powell said.

"We are committed to unlocking new opportunities for private land conservation by working in partnership with landholders through voluntary agreements and strategic support to unlock new opportunities on productive private land.

"We know our primary producers are great environmental stewards, as they rely on healthy land for their livelihoods."

Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Farmers Federation Jo Sheppard said the discussion paper was an important step in ensuring private protected areas worked for farmers.

"Landholders are already strong environmental stewards, and the agriculture sector appreciates having the opportunity to provide input to ensure the design of these programs reflects the realities of modern agriculture," Ms Sheppard said.

NRM Regions CEO Chris Norman said regional NRM organisations worked closely with nature refuge participants across Queensland for many years.

"We understand the need for incentives, practical support and clear guidance," Mr Norman said.

"We look forward to contributing to the consultation process, which will ensure Queensland's future conservation policy is grounded in on-the-ground knowledge and shaped by those directly involved in managing the land."