In a bid to mitigate environmental risks, the New South Wales Liberal and National Party is set to introduce legislation to prevent offshore mining and exploration in New South Wales waters.
The Minerals Legislation Amendment (Offshore Drilling and Associated Infrastructure Prohibition) Bill 2023 is set to support the New South Wales Liberal and National Party’s policy to prevent offshore mining and exploration in New South Wales waters.
The proposed legislation will, however, continue to allow mineral exploration or mining in New South Wales waters for beach nourishment where a clear public benefit can be demonstrated, in a bid to help tackle beach erosion.
Leader of the Liberal Party in New South Wales, Mark Speakman, said, “The former New South Wales Coalition Government was consistently opposed to offshore mining due to the grave concerns we hold about the possible impact on the environment.”
Shadow Environment Minister, Kellie Sloane, has called on the New South Wales Government to support the legislation, saying, “The Coalition will always stand up for the environment and our communities, who have said loud and clear that they care deeply about our pristine coastline”.
“The New South Wales and Federal Labor Governments must confirm that they support our ban, otherwise the uncertainty of future offshore exploration and mining will continue to hang over our coastal communities,” Ms Sloane said.
Member for Pittwater, Rory Amon, will introduce the Bill in the Parliament and said it fulfils a key election promise and makes it abundantly clear that anyone looking to drill for gas in New South Wales waters won’t have the opportunity.
“Pittwater is just one of many coastal electorates who hold deep concerns about the environmental impact of mining and exploration off our shore,” Mr Amon said.
“I made clear prior to the election that this would be a priority of mine, and I am pleased that this is one of my first actions as the Member for Pittwater.
“This is a strong demonstration that the Coalition will continue to stand up for our communities, and the people of New South Wales, and act when the Labor Government fails to do so.”
