Farmers and environmentalists have opposed the critical minerals bill in Queensland.

The legislative initiative has sparked public backlash: the committee on primary industries and resources has received more than 1300 submissions during public hearings. Critics of the document are concerned that the new regulations will allow the government to expedite environmental assessments, which, according to environmental advocates, undermines the rights of local communities to participate in decision-making.

Representatives of the agricultural lobby, in particular AgForce president Shane McCarthy, have expressed concerns regarding the bill's impact on the relationship between landowners and mining companies. The main grievance is that granting the state the power to declare projects as strategic could weaken the negotiating position of farmers and limit their ability to protect their interests. It is also emphasized that maintaining the long-term ability of farmers to use the land to generate income is of vital importance.

In turn, the Deputy Premier stated that the document includes necessary control mechanisms, including parliamentary oversight and mandatory consultations with landowners over a six-month period for projects of state significance. According to her, the bill also opens up opportunities for economic development in the agricultural sector, including the creation of feedlots and abattoirs. All raised issues are planned to be reviewed during parliamentary debates.