NFF Says New EPBC Guide Leaves Farmers with More Questions

The National Farmers’ Federation says the Federal Government’s new guide to changes to environmental laws leaves farmers with more questions than answers.

The guide is intended to help agricultural landholders understand their responsibilities under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

But NFF Sustainable Development Committee Chair Angus Atkinson says it fails to provide enough certainty around routine farm activities, including fence construction and essential earthworks.

The NFF has been consulting with the Government since amendments to the legislation were gazetted last December, including changes removing exemptions for some routine agricultural activities involving vegetation more than 15 years old.

Mr Atkinson says the federation does not support or endorse the guide, and will continue pushing for greater clarity and practical implementation.

Farmers are being encouraged to review the guide and provide feedback during a planned three-month review, with the NFF calling for environmental outcomes without unnecessary costs, complexity or uncertainty for farm businesses.