Queensland government's 'extraordinary powers' bill passes parliament amid criticism

A contentious bill bestowing sweeping compulsory acquisition powers upon the Queensland government has successfully passed the state parliament, despite significant opposition. The new law empowers the government to designate projects as 'state strategic,' thereby enabling the coordinator-general to utilize a suite of new authorities to expedite development.

The State Development and Public Works Organisation (Critical Minerals) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (2026) is championed by the government as a crucial measure to leverage the burgeoning critical minerals sector. However, critics contend that the bill concentrates excessive authority in the hands of the planning minister and undermines fundamental legal protections. Notably, the legislation permits the government to acquire land for private projects for the first time, while also curtailing appeal rights and allowing for legislative amendments via 'modification orders.'

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This legislation gives us the tools to attract investment, create jobs and build new industries.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie asserted that the bill's purpose is to secure investment in critical minerals, stating, "This legislation gives us the tools to attract investment, create jobs and build new industries." He emphasized that the powers would not automatically guarantee project approval or bypass existing environmental, planning, or resource regulations. Critical minerals, defined by the state government as essential for modern economies and vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, include resources like vanadium and cobalt for batteries, and copper for infrastructure.

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They have taken on some of our recommendations … we would have preferred it to go a little bit further, but you never get [all of what you] asked for.

Amendments were introduced shortly before the bill's passage, partly in response to vocal criticism from Queensland's agricultural sector, which feared the appropriation of prime farmland for mining, renewable energy, and tourism projects. These late amendments excluded renewable energy projects and data centers from being declared state strategic and ensured that a Regional Interests Development Approval (RIDA) remained a prerequisite. AgForce Queensland president Shane McCarthy acknowledged the government's responsiveness, stating, "They have taken on some of our recommendations… but you never get [all of what you] asked for."

Queensland Farmers Federation CEO Kylie Porter expressed optimism that the legislation strikes a balance, noting that while legislation is a key component, ongoing dialogue and implementation are crucial. The bill's passage marks a significant, albeit debated, step in Queensland's strategy to boost its economy through resource development.

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It's great to see a government that actually listens and takes on board what their regional constituents are saying.