THE HON DAVID LITTLEPROUD MP
Leader of The Nationals
Shadow Agriculture Minister
24 February 2026
Farmers left in limbo under Labor’s confusing, messy environmental reforms
Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud said Labor’s environmental reforms have created a confusing and costly mess, with farmers unable to get the information or help they need.
Mr Littleproud said last-minute amendments to the Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 relating to the continuing use provision is particularly concerning and needs action from the Albanese Government.
“Labor doesn’t understand that managing regrowth is an important part of agricultural production,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Labor also doesn’t understand, not being able to manage regrowth will actually lead to negative environmental outcomes and increase the risk of bushfires.
“Unfortunately, farmers are struggling to get information about what they can and can’t do under the new requirements. Machinery operators have also said the requirements will damage their business and cut jobs.
“Farmers are worried about accidentally doing the wrong thing. But Labor is more focused on bureaucracy and doing deals with the Greens than just using some common sense.”
Mr Littleproud added farmers are now requesting compensation for the cost of halting work and the devaluation of property. It comes as the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has announced a team of ‘regulation and compliance officers’ are visiting Queensland this month to ensure ‘the new rules are being followed’.
“Labor has put our farmers in an impossible position, where they can’t work, but then can’t get answers they need. Labor continues to treat the agricultural industry with contempt and it simply isn’t good enough.”
Roma-based timber, dam and earthworks contractor John Cormack said he has serious concerns about the changes and the implications to his business.
He works across Maranoa from Roma and Injune to Augathella.
“These rules are up in the air and will stop our work,” Mr Cormack said.
“This is a massive disaster if they don’t stop and listen to the people feeding this nation. Labor destroys every time they come into power. Eventually they are going to destroy our regional areas good and proper, until there is no return.”
