Natural Resources and Mines Minister Andrew Cripps said the budget reflected the government’s commitment to striking a balance between economic development and the responsible management of land, water and environmental values.

He said the budget honoured a commitment to continue funding Queensland’s 14 regional Natural Resource Management bodies, to protect and preserve the state’s precious natural resources.

“Queensland’s 14 regional NRM bodies are the custodians of invaluable local knowledge and know-how about managing the long-term care of natural resources in the regions,” he said.

“They are also an important link between government and communities, facilitating local activities to improve, restore and protect waterways, rangelands, wetlands and wildlife habitats in a cost effective way.

“This $80 million investment will help NRM groups fund further local on-ground projects dealing with weeds and pests, improving soil, vegetation and water quality outcomes, and helping to protect the Great Barrier Reef through the Paddock to Reef Program.”

The Australian Greens have announced a policy to stop offshore dumping of dredge spoil in the Great Barrier Reef being dug up for nearby coal and gas ports.

The reef dumping put coral and fish health at risk, Australian Greens environment spokeswoman Larissa Waters said.

“Since 2000, 22 million cubic metres of dredge spoil has been approved to be dumped in our precious reef – that's more than 13 Melbourne Cricket Grounds worth,” she said.

Treasurer Tim Nicholls said the government was conscious of trying to strike the right balance between strong growth in the economy and protecting natural resources.

“We are working to grow Queensland’s economy and, at the same time, we are repairing the state’s finances,” he said.

“But we are making sure growth happens in a considered way that does not put our valuable natural resources under unsustainable pressure.”