A significant increase in Programme of Work applications in Western Australia is being supported by a new State Government plan to expedite exploration and mining approvals.
Western Australia’s Mines and Petroleum Minister, Bill Johnston, endorsed a new plan to accelerate exploration and mining approvals following a significant increase in applications in the 2020-21 financial year.
The Approvals Response Plan, developed by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, will focus on prioritising the assessment and approvals of Programmes of Work applications, Mining Proposals and Native Vegetation Clearing Permits.
“Ongoing responsible and sustainable exploration and mining activities are essential to maintaining the sector’s strong performance,” Mr Johnston said.
“The high number of mining applications is another clear indication that Western Australia’s resources sector is growing from strength to strength.”
Programme of Work applications proposing exploration activities have increased by 42 per cent during the period with 450 applications received in March 2022, while Mining Proposals have increased by ten per cent.
The Approvals Response Plan will redirect a number of regulatory functions and resources to support the assessment processes.
“The Approval Response Plan’s redirection of departmental resources will give the industry confidence in the timeframe for key resource sector approvals,” Mr Johnston said.
“Exploration approvals will be prioritised to bring them back on track by the end of September 2022. Other approvals will meet their timeframe targets by the end of this year.
The Plan will defer all revisions or post-approval Mine Closure Plan submissions required under the Mining Act 1978 which are considered lower risk, for a 12-month period from 1 July 2022 to June 2023, and individual companies will be notified accordingly.
