These grassland stock routes on the Darling Downs contain approximately 1000 hectares of endangered RE11.3.21 grasslands, protected under the federal EPBC Act
Photo © Alison GoodlandExposure Draft Stock Route Network Management Bill 2011
Late in March a copy of the proposed legislation was made available on a limited distribution to determine the reaction from key stakeholders. Those accessing the Bill had to sign a deed of confidentiality so it is not possible to provide the details within the Bill but approval is to hand to provide broad non specific details.
Obviously there exists Cabinet approval to prepare the Bill. However the draft Bill is not Government Policy and may be subject to change prior to being tabled in Parliament. There is also a late opportunity to suggest changes for consideration and that will be exercised in order to strengthen the Bill from our perspective. Obviously other key stakeholders will exercise that opportunity from their point of view.
The Government has come a long way in addressing the concerns raised over the management of the Stock Route Network (SRN) during the past 4 years. Could it be further improved - undoubtedly yes!
The positives
The Bill has addressed legislative reform and its broad approach embraces many of the issues raised.
Key changes include a revised classification system, primary a, primary b and secondary, but there is concern over the apparent accuracy of the revised map to reflect 'real and current data'. There is increased focus on pasture management and retention for travelling stock.
The responsibility of the day to day management remains with local authorities but in accordance with a plan developed by the State. Land condition, biodiversity, cultural heritage and the capacity to adapt to climate change are to be better managed.
A more comprehensive user pays concept is to be introduced to better reflect the benefits some people derived from the use of the SRN. An electronic management system is to be introduced to enhance consistent and effective management. A transparent process will be used to classify the SRN components into a three tiered system with more effective control on grazing. Grazing authorities will be phased out within 5 years on the highly used section of the SRN and will be managed to retain residual pasture levels. Travel permits, grazing authorities and various declarations are all addressed.
If the suggested charges for the various uses of the SRN are realistic and practical are better addressed by other organization with the necessary expertise. It is my understanding that the figures are based on what the Government believes necessary to meet management costs for the SRN. About two thirds of the funding raised is retained by the Local Government the remainder returned to the State My only concern is if proposed charges on the drovers are such to limit their business that would be a concern.
Major Concerns
There is a need in places to strengthen language used eg 'must' to replace 'should'.
The apparent in-balance in membership of the Stock Route Assessment Panel needs addressing or the prescribed mode of operation of that panel changed.
Accuracy of the proposed map of primary a, primary b and secondary stock routes needs addressing. While there are criteria to define these categories, such criteria will not be applied initially because of the lack of hard data available to DERM. At this stage primary a and primary b each represent about 12.5% of the SRN totaling 25%. The map is to be reviewed in 2 years. The conservation movement is accustomed to phasing in of change but there are concerns that required changes based on better data will be given effect in two years time.
While the proposed legislation addresses many positive changes for management and that is to be applauded, unless there is a strong compliance and enforcement program in place there is a concern there will be little change in spite of the enhanced legislation. Past history clearly demonstrates that in some local authorities there is either a lack of resources and expertise or a political unwillingness to issue non compliance orders or prosecute breaches of the legislation. No doubt the introduction of an electronic data base to issue permits and address other management issues will be of assistance in ensuring enhanced management. However the State Government will need to ensure that they have in place a rigorous compliance program so the true benefits of the legislation are reflected.
Timing of legislation
Some broad indications have been provided and the draft Bill has this years date on it.
More information
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