The need for free independent legal advice for rural landholders impacted by mining-related issues has been recognised, with funding recently made available by Attorney-General Kerry Shine to enable Legal Aid Queensland to engage a specialist solicitor.
This week Toowoomba-based solicitor Glen Martin began work with Legal Aid Queensland and is available to assist mining-affected landholders throughout the state.
In addition to legal qualifications, Mr Martin has a business degree in property valuation and extensive experience acting for rural people as a solicitor in Toowoomba for more than 10 years.
AgForce has welcomed Mr Martin’s appointment, which came about after the farm group identified a need for independent expert advice in the face of accelerated rate of exploration and mine development in Queensland.
Chief executive officer Brett de Hayr said AgForce was pleased the Attorney-General has recognised the issues in the sector with regard to mining encroachment and taken steps to assist in resolving potential conflicts.
Mr Martin will work with Legal Aid Queensland’s Farm and Rural Legal Service providing advice and assistance to landholders throughout the state.
"Glen will be available to provide initial advice to landholders on how the exploration and mining approval process works, the rights and obligations of landholders, and what compensation is available for affected landholders," Mr de Hayr said.
The Legal Aid service will be free and no means test will apply.
Those seeking assistance can call Legal Aid Queensland on 1300 651 188 for the cost of a local call.
Mr de Hayr said Mr Martin's role was complemented by Department of Mines and Energy community liaison officer Gerry McKie, who was appointed several months ago after AgForce negotiations with the Queensland Government about the need for more information for landholders.
Mr McKie’s role is to provide landholders with an understanding about the relevant statutory frameworks and land access issues in general. A range of factsheets relating to landholder rights in relation to exploration and mining activities are available on the AgForce and DME websites.
Mining Summits in Dysart, Dalby and Mount Isa later this month will provide an opportunity for landholders and others to raise community concerns about the impact of mining in their region.