Compliance data insights

Progress in Sustainable Farming: Supporting Reef Protection

Queensland sugarcane growers, with their long-standing experience in regulated farming, have been adoption more sustainable practices over time. The majority of growers have actively embraced positive changes. With guidance from the Queensland Government and strong collaboration with industry partners, these growers continue to demonstrate their leadership in environmental stewardship and innovation.

By working closely with industries such as banana cultivation and cattle grazing the department is confident that ongoing collaboration will support even greater adoption of sustainable practices and build upon their commitment to environmental responsibility and industry advancement.

Compliance rates do differ between regions, with inspections focusing on high-priority areas where water quality risks to the Great Barrier Reef are most significant. This targeted approach ensures that government resources are focused where they can make the biggest difference, while continuous engagement with local industries drives progress towards a sustainable future.

1 December 2019 – 31 March 2026

1 July 2024 - 30 June 2025

1 July 2025 – 31 March 2026

	Reef Region (Ha)
Engagement	Burdekin	Burnett Mary	Fitzroy	Mackay Whitsundays	Wet Tropics	Cape York
Physical	2,298,777	78,395	1,057,698	96,632	361,449	392
Desktop	359,111	12,843	37,335	30,464	119,037	734

Definitions of compliance activities tables

Enforcement groups

No ongoing issues: The compliance officer concluded the inspection satisfied that requirements were met, potentially with identified concerns or observations being addressed during the process.

Advisory action: Some minor matters were identified by compliance officer which could not be rectified at the time of inspection. Voluntary compliance was achieved after the inspection through follow-up correspondence.

Corrective action: Formal enforcement action, in accordance with DETSI's Enforcement Guidelines, was required to ensure the producer took action to meet requirements after inspection.

Escalated action: More significant contravention were identified during or after the inspection, requiring the compliance officer to implement escalated measures, such as issuing infringement notices.

1 December 2019 – 31 March 2026

1 December 2019 – 31 March 2026