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ARTICLE · 09 DECEMBER 2013

Regional Planning Interests Bill is another hurdle for resource projects

Corrs Chambers Westgarth
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The Regional Planning Interests Bill is legislation squarely directed at the resources industry in Queensland.

AustraliaEnvironment
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The Regional Planning Interests Bill (Qld) is legislation squarely directed at the resources industry in Queensland.

If the Bill is passed in its current form, it will generally prevent resources activities being carried out in areas of regional interest. While resource project proponents will be able to apply for a regional interests authority to carry out their activities in these areas, it would seem they will only be permitted if both the state government and relevant local governments agree.

So, will these new regional interests authorities better "manage the impact of resource activities and other regulated activities on areas of the State that contribute, or are likely to contribute, to Queensland's economic, social and environmental prosperity", as intended by the Bill?

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