Land use planning
The demand for land in Queensland is rising due to population growth, urban development, renewable energy projects, infrastructure expansion and environmental initiatives such as carbon and biodiversity schemes.
While these trends create opportunities for landholders, they also pose challenges for existing farming enterprises. The way land use planning is managed will significantly affect agricultural production and, ultimately, food and fibre availability for consumers.
It is essential to recognise that providing food and fibre for a growing global population is a critical land use. The loss of agricultural land to other purposes can have far-reaching consequences.
To ensure sound policy decisions are made with respect to agricultural land, it is essential that policymakers transparently measure and manage land use changes from year to year.
QFF advocates for the establishment or support of well-resourced coexistence institutions that provide effective information and education to farmers and regional communities. Urgent reform is also needed to address legislative barriers and inconsistencies that hinder the development of an effective coexistence framework.
Our areas of focus
Strengthening strategic planning for agriculture
Our focus is to:
- advocate for the measurement and management of land use changes year on year to ensure sound policy decisions
- develop a long-term strategic plan for food and agriculture that supports farm business viability and ensures consumers have access to high-quality, affordable Australian produce, backed by appropriate land and water use planning
- strengthen protections for priority agricultural land and establish reasonable use guidelines to safeguard existing enterprises
- ensure statutory regional plans prioritise agricultural resources and complete priority agricultural area mapping with industry input.
Safeguarding natural resources
Our focus is to:
- maintain regulatory changes that protect the Great Artesian Basin from carbon capture and storage projects
- require renewable energy projects to undergo impact assessments as environmentally relevant activities.
Supporting industry growth and innovation
Our focus is to:
- work with CANEGROWERS and the broader industry to develop sustainable aviation fuel and future fuel opportunities for farmers
- support agritourism through planning reforms that expand opportunities for producers.
Our land use planning submissions
Our land use planning team
Adam Knapp is QFF’s General Manager for Policy and Projects, leading the strategic development and delivery of policy initiatives that strengthen Queensland’s agricultural sector.
With more than 25 years’ experience across government, industry and research, Adam combines critical analysis, policy expertise and stakeholder engagement to address complex issues in sustainable agriculture, biosecurity, water management, climate change and natural resource management. He provides high-level policy advice to QFF’s CEO, Board and members, and oversees a diverse portfolio of projects and staff working across Queensland.
Adam’s work includes driving legislative submissions, shaping QFF’s advocacy priorities, and building partnerships that deliver practical, future-focused solutions for farmers and rural communities. Prior to joining QFF, he held roles with the National Native Title Tribunal, Seafood Services Australia, Harrods and Ernst & Young in London.
Adam holds qualifications in behavioural science, political science and leadership.