Queensland miners, sewer operators and farmers will no longer be able to dump as much run-off into the Great Barrier Reef under a new law.
It will set limits on the amount of sediment, fertiliser and pesticide allowed to drain into coastal water catchments that eventually flow into the world's biggest coral reef.
No further changes to the regulation will occur for another five years after a handful of government MPs negotiated a small win for industry.
Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said the regulations will mirror practices already accepted by industry.
They aim to cut run-off while improving productivity and profitability.
"We know the two biggest threats to the reef are climate change and water quality, and the laws passed today will help improve water quality flowing to the Great Barrier Reef," she said.
The state government will provide funding to support beef cattle graziers in the Burdekin, Fitzroy and Burnett Mary regions to help them put together land management plans.
Queensland Farmers' Federation president Stuart Armitage said a blanket approach to regulating agricultural activities will not lead to the best outcomes for anyone.
Australian Associated Press
