Compliance data insights

Progress in Sustainable Farming: Supporting Reef Protection

The compliance data insights below provide information about the compliance activities of the Reef Compliance and Regulation Program in their regulation of the sugarcane cultivation, banana cultivation, beef cattle grazing and new or expanded commercial cropping and horticulture (ERA13A) industries in the Great Barrier Reef Catchment areas.

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

By working closely with industries associated with sugarcane cultivation, banana cultivation, beef cattle grazing and commercial cropping and horticulture, the Queensland Government 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.

The compliance activities listed in the tables below are described as either 'Physical' or 'Physical + Desktop':

Physical: Compliance officers assess relevant records, discuss farm management practices including fertiliser application, erosion and sediment control, and land condition management, and will physically inspect relevant parts of the site.

Physical + Desktop: This activity includes all elements of a physical assessment, together with the collection of copies of relevant records for a more comprehensive desktop review and analysis following the site inspection.

1 December 2019 – 30 June 2026

1 July 2024 - 30 June 2025

1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026

	Reef Region (Ha)
Engagement	Burdekin	Burnett Mary	Fitzroy	Mackay Whitsundays	Wet Tropics	Cape York
Physical	2,300,169	78,395	818,207	75,251	369,604	392
Desktop	359,111	12,803	37,253	27,233	118,933	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 contraventions were identified during or after the inspection, requiring the compliance officer to implement escalated measures, such as issuing infringement notices.

1 December 2019 – 30 June 2026

1 December 2019 – 30 June 2026