This resolves uncertainty over its Huntly and Willowdale mines. Under the deal, Alcoa will pay $55 million in enforceable undertakings to remediate historical land clearing. This is the largest conservation-focused commitment of its kind in Australia.
To bridge the gap while a full assessment is completed, the Government has granted a “national interest exemption”. This allows operations to continue for 18 months.
Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt said the exemption is vital for the 6000 workers employed by Alcoa and for critical mineral supply.
“To regularise environmental approvals moving forward, the Australian Government has agreed to progress a strategic assessment agreement with Alcoa to guide sustainable mining at its Huntly and Willowdale mining operations,” Watt said.
“[The exemption] ensures the continued supply of bauxite and supports future gallium production, critical for renewable systems like solar panels and wind turbines.”
Alcoa president and chief executive officer William Oplinger said the company is pleased to secure a clear path forward.
“We are committed to responsible operations and welcome this important step in transitioning our approvals to a contemporary assessment process that provides increased certainty for our operations and our people into the future,” Oplinger said.
“We appreciate the Government’s recognition of the important contributions of our operations to the Australian economy.”
The $55 million will fund ecological offsets and conservation programs for species, including the black cockatoo. The strategic assessment covers mining through to 2045. Separate assessments for future regions, Myara North and Holyoake, remain ongoing.
