Do you know your obligations under Australia's environmental law?
Published on 28 September 2026
Rural landholders: Understanding changes to Australia’s environmental laws
Murweh Shire Council is sharing information to help rural landholders and land managers understand their obligations under Australia’s national environmental law.
What is the EPBC Act?
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is the Australian Government’s main environmental law.
It protects matters of national environmental significance, including nationally threatened plants, animals and ecological communities, migratory species and internationally important wetlands.
If an activity on your property — such as clearing vegetation — is likely to have a significant impact on a protected matter, you may need Australian Government approval before starting work.
These requirements apply in addition to any Queensland Government requirements.
What has changed?
Significant reforms to the EPBC Act were passed in late 2025, with the changes being introduced in stages.
The exemption that previously allowed some long-standing land uses to continue has been narrowed.
EPBC approval may now be required for clearing that is likely to significantly impact a protected matter where the vegetation has not been cleared for 15 years or more. Forestry operations are treated separately.
- New independent regulator
From 1 July 2026, the National Environmental Protection Agency (National EPA) became responsible for compliance and enforcement of the EPBC Act.
New national environmental standards, approval tests and offset rules are due to commence on or before 1 December 2026.
Before you start work
If you are planning vegetation clearing or other development on your property, make sure you understand your obligations before commencing work.
Resources for landholders
The National EPA has released resources to help farmers and land managers understand what the EPBC Act means for them:
Agriculture and the EPBC Act guide
Read the guide
Webinar: Helping landholders comply with the EPBC Act
Watch the webinar
Have your say – survey closes 30 September 2026
The National EPA is also seeking feedback from stakeholders about how it communicates and regulates, including its guidance, communication channels, decision-making transparency and timeframes.
Rural landholders are encouraged to provide feedback through the National EPA Stakeholder Survey, which closes Wednesday 30 September 2026.
Complete the survey
This information is provided by Murweh Shire Council for community awareness and does not constitute legal or environmental advice. Landholders should seek appropriate advice regarding their individual circumstances.