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Labor making a mess of mining exploration issues

The Bligh Labor Government iss still ‘making it up as they go along’ on mining exploration issues despite being in power for 20 of the past 22 years. The Bligh Labor Government’s failure to put proper processes in place for mining exploration is a major cause of conflict and community concern. Labor has created a complete mess of this, and their tinkering at the edges does little to address the uncertainty for many landholders who live in areas covered by mining exploration permits, particularly in smaller communities.  

The fact the Mines Minister is now saying the Government is only at ‘step one’ on addressing mining exploration issues after 20 years in power demonstrates how Labor never plans for the future, they only react to the daily media cycle. 

Local communities, landholders and the resources sector are still none the wiser today about where mining exploration can and cannot occur. 

The LNP moved a motion in State Parliament five months ago highlighting concerns about the impact of mining exploration permits granted near Toowoomba, which Labor MPs like Kerry Shine and Wayne Wendt voted against. 

Labor’s policy on the run approach to mining issues is 20 years too late and it is leaving landholders, local communities and resource companies in limbo. 

The impact of mining does not start when the ground is dug up. There needs to be recognition that exploration permits have an impact on the people who live in those areas. 

Regional plans need to be developed to clearly identify appropriate land uses across the region so communities and mining companies know where they stand, and where projects can and can’t go ahead. 

The LNP is committed to protecting strategic cropping land and ensuring our energy-rich resources are developed in a way that complements the economic future of other industry sectors, and finds the appropriate balance between growing our economy and protecting Queensland’s environment.