Nsw greens push new bill to give councils greater control over rapidly expanding berry farms amid environmental concerns

A growing conflict is brewing along New South Wales’ mid-north coast as the booming berry industry expands into new territories, prompting environmental concerns and tensions with neighboring landowners. Next week, Greens MP Cate Faehrmann will introduce legislation in the NSW Legislative Council aimed at empowering local councils with stronger regulatory authority over blueberry and other berry farming operations.

The proposed private member’s bill comes as residents and local authorities raise alarms about potential environmental hazards and property devaluation linked to the industry’s rapid growth. Berry farms, particularly blueberry operations, have been proliferating across the region, creating what officials describe as “serious frictions” with other landholders who worry about the impact on their communities and land values.

The legislative push highlights a broader tension between agricultural development and environmental protection. While government ministers have cautioned that excessive regulations could hamper modern farming practices, community advocates argue that stronger oversight is essential to prevent environmental damage and protect existing residents’ interests.

Adding another layer to the controversy, the state Labor government is simultaneously weighing an inquiry into alleged worker abuse within the berry industry. Unlike most other Australian states, NSW currently lacks regulations governing labor hire companies that connect seasonal agricultural workers with farms. This regulatory gap has raised concerns about worker exploitation in an industry heavily dependent on temporary and migrant labor.

The competing pressures reflect a classic environmental and social justice dilemma: balancing economic growth in agriculture with community protection and worker rights as the berry industry continues its aggressive expansion across coastal NSW.