Opened the debate
Gee argued that the bill was essential for securing national food security and protecting prime agricultural land from urban sprawl and foreign renewable energy projects. Gee noted that agricultural production value had risen significantly, reaching $82.4 billion in 2023-24, with exports valued at $77.2 billion in 2024-25. Gee contended that the legislation would prohibit the use of prime agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes and prevent the expansion of existing non-agricultural uses. Gee criticised state and federal governments, particularly the National Party, for failing to enact protective planning laws or regulate renewable energy zones effectively.