Recreation Areas Management Act 2006

Recreation Areas Management Act 2006 (Queensland)

What is this law about?

This Queensland law creates a framework for establishing, managing, and providing public access to recreation areas — designated parcels of land (which can include private land, State land, or land with native title) set aside for recreational use like camping, driving, and organised events or commercial activities.

Who does it affect?

• The general public who want to camp, drive vehicles, run events, or operate businesses in recreation areas
• Landowners whose private land might be included in a recreation area (they must consent via a written agreement)
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with native title or indigenous land rights in these areas
• Businesses running commercial activities (e.g. tour operators) in recreation areas
• Mining and resources companies operating in or near these areas

Key things to know:

Declaring a Recreation Area The government can declare any land a recreation area by regulation (a law made by the government without going through Parliament). Private land can only be included if the landowner agrees in writing. Importantly, native title rights are not extinguished (wiped out) by a declaration.

Every recreation area must have a management plan. The public, landowners, and Indigenous groups get a say — there must be at least 20 business days for public submissions. Plans must be reviewed every 10 years.