Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Say

Don’t doubt it. This is a defining moment for Queensland as the Deputy Premier attempts to introduce new laws that would radically condense power for development approvals into his hands, and that of the Coordinator General.

The Office of the Coordinator General already has powers to fast track development that is considered important across the state. The amendments proposed would extend these powers not only to broaden what can be declared a priority, but also give powers to the Deputy Premier to modify how existing laws apply to projects – like our environment, heritage and human rights laws. Good process and assessment exists so that future generations aren’t left with poor development, stranded assets, and wrecked nature and culture. The amended laws would give centralised approval powers to one person, and that is never a sign of a healthy economy. You don’t need to be an expert to have a say, you can make a simple submission, and it will matter.

Make a Submission

Across Queensland conservationists, landholders and Traditional Owners are voicing their concerns about the proposed laws which hold deeply concerning elements, including;

• Creation of new powers for the Minister, including to declare “State strategic projects”
• Creation of new “modification orders”, which are broad powers for the Minister to modify how existing laws apply to State strategic projects
• Empower the Coordinator-General to acquire land for more types of developments with weaker consultation and requirements
• Increased rights for proponent to access and use land
• The changes proposed by the Bill would:
  • Limit human rights, including appeal and consultation rights, and
  • Impact Cultural Rights of First Nations people

If you’re really passionate consider writing a bespoke submission using the buttons below;

Make a Submission Read the Guide for Submissions

You can see the details of the proposed legislation on the website of the parliamentary committee that is currently accepting submissions;

1. State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026
   • The closing date for written submissions is 4pm, 25 June 2026.
   • Submissions must include:
     • the author’s full nam
     • if the submission is made on behalf of an organisation, the level of approval (e.g. a local branch, executive committee or national organisation), and
     • at least two of the following:
       • email address
       • mailing address, and
       • daytime telephone number.

Last week the Environmental Defenders Office held a public briefing to help us more deeply understand these laws and you can read that information here;

1. Community Brief
2. Webinar Slide from Community Breif

Make a Submission