Victorian Farmers Raise Alarm Over New Environment Laws

The Victorian Farmers Federation says new federal environmental laws are making it harder for farmers to manage their own land.

Changes to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act came into effect late last year, with the National Environmental Protection Agency beginning enforcement this week.

The Federation says farmers may now need federal approval before clearing vegetation that hasn't been removed in the past 15 years, even if it was originally planted by the landholder.

VFF President Ryan Milgate says many producers are unaware the rules have changed, leaving them to interpret complex environmental laws before carrying out routine farm work.

The organisation says penalties for getting it wrong can reach $16.5 million or seven years in prison.

The VFF is calling on the Federal Government to simplify the legislation, saying farmers want to protect the environment but need practical and workable rules to continue managing their properties.