Deputy Queensland Premier Steven Miles says he has been assured by Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig of the councilâs commitment to koala protection as criticism mounts over its decision to remove two environment planning laws late last year.
The Deputy Premier and Planning Minister has been urged by environmental groups to step in and overturn the repeal of the two temporary planning instruments last December.
The decision sparked protests and outcry, including an online petition with more than 44,000 signatures asking Mr Miles to use his powers under the Planning Act to intervene.
This week the Wide Bay Burnett Environment Council renewed the push for State involvement, whether by reinstating the laws or expanding the governmentâs own southeast koala habitat protection laws.