In 2025, a statutory review was conducted into the regulated standards under the Reef protection regulations. The review examined whether the standards and supporting materials are clear, practical to comply with, evidence-based and fit for purpose.
As part of the consultation process, the Australian Banana Growers’ Council encouraged grower participation, including facilitating a grower workshop to ensure industry voices were heard. The Queensland Government team also met with the ABGC Board.
The BMP Team contributed to the review by providing a technical and administrative submission informed by their ongoing work supporting banana growers and agronomists across the industry.
The review report identifies a range of matters for consideration, including:
- Proposed revisions to nitrogen threshold rates for plant crops
- Further investigation into phosphorus requirements for bananas on different soil types and possible improved testing methods
- Updated examples of erosion and sediment control measures based on current scientific evidence
- Practical tools such as templates or worked examples to support record keeping
- Opportunities to reduce administrative burden through adjusted timeframes for making and retaining records
These matters do not yet represent changes to current regulations. During the coming year, the Queensland Government will consider the review’s findings and recommendations. Any proposed changes would proceed through a formal regulatory process, including further public consultation.
The BMP Team will continue to support growers by providing practical guidance on current requirements and assisting with any future updates as they arise.
For support with Reef regulations or BMP, contact the BMP Team by emailing [email protected] or visiting abgc.org.au/bmp/. Click here for more information about the review, including the full report and recommendations.
The Banana BMP Best Practice Fund is funded under the Banana Best Management Practice (BMP) Project (2023–2026). The Banana BMP is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by Australian Banana Growers’ Council in partnership with growers.