What it does
The Stock Route Management Act 2002 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the stock route network across Queensland. Its main purpose, stated in s.3, is to provide for stock route network management. This is achieved primarily through five mechanisms set out in s.4: (a) establishing principles of stock route network management; (b) providing for stock route network management planning; (c) establishing responsibilities for stock route network management; (d) constructing and maintaining travelling stock facilities on the stock route network; and (e) monitoring, surveying and controlling the movement of travelling stock.
At the apex sits a State stock route network management strategy that the chief executive must maintain (s.98(1)). The strategy must recognise the network’s multiple uses (with travelling stock as the main use), preserve land corridor connections, manage natural resources sustainably, maintain travelling stock facilities, resolve competing interests and seek community input (s.98(2)). The chief executive must prepare the strategy having regard to the principles in s.97, implement it as far as practicable (s.101), review it at least six months before expiry (s.102(2)), and publish it on the department’s website (s.103).
Local governments prescribed by regulation (s.104) must adopt their own stock route network management plans within one year of being notified that a new State strategy has taken effect (s.105(1)). These plans must identify the relevant part of the network in their area, set achievable objectives, allocate strategies and responsibilities, include community information and monitoring mechanisms, and remain consistent with both the s.97 principles and the State strategy (s.105(3)). Preparation of draft plans requires regard to a detailed list of matters in s.106, including environmental and cultural values, non-stock uses, fragmentation risks and local community interests (including Aboriginal communities). Where a stock route intersects or adjoins a protected area, State-controlled road or waterway, additional consultation with the relevant department is mandatory (s.107). A further consultation obligation arises if any other Act’s requirements may affect stock movement (s.108). Public notice, a 28-day submission period and consideration of submissions are required before adoption by resolution (ss.109-110).