Question Time AU

Bill

Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026

Debated Monday 2 March 2026 to Wednesday 11 March 2026

Debate items
3
Chambers
House of Representatives, Senate
Votes
0

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

  1. Monday 2 March 2026 · House of Representatives

    Second Reading

    The debate focused on the Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026, introduced by the National Party to safeguard Australia's most productive farming areas. The member for Lyne argued that current development pressures, including mining and renewable energy projects, threaten food security and regional livelihoods without adequate protection for landowners. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a national mapping system for agricultural land and impose strict conditions on Commonwealth-funded projects affecting prime farmland. It aims to prevent the loss of high-quality soil and ensure that farmers are compensated and supported if their land is impacted. The bill was moved for second reading to initiate the legislative process.

    Outcome: The bill was moved for second reading by Alison Penfold.

    Read the full summary

  2. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · Senate

    First Reading
    See who spoke

  3. Wednesday 11 March 2026 · Senate

    Second Reading

    Senator Matthew Canavan moved the second reading of the Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026, arguing that national food security requires strict protection of prime agricultural land from development and foreign control. The proposed legislation would establish a national mapping system categorising land into three tiers, with the highest tier receiving absolute protection from Commonwealth-funded projects that reduce productivity or involve foreign ownership. Canavan contended that the bill ensures developers meet rigorous conditions regarding land rehabilitation and social licence, supported by a new independent Agriculture Commissioner. The debate was adjourned after Canavan sought leave to continue his remarks at a later time.

    Outcome: The debate was adjourned after Senator Canavan sought leave to continue his remarks later.

    Read the full summary

Related