The Mining Amendment Act 2022 (WA) introduced several initiatives to streamline and modernise the mining approvals process and which the Department has now rolled out. This rollout represents a major step forward under the Department’s Fast-Tracking Mining Approvals Strategy.
Key initiatives include:
- the Eligible Mining Activity (EMA) Framework under the EMA Regulations. This is designed to streamline approvals for low-risk mining activities;
- the Mining Development and Closure Proposals (MDCPs) Framework. MDCPs replace the requirement to provide a Mining Proposal and Mine Closure Plan at the project approval stage, reducing duplication and resulting in streamlined decision-making. Prior to undertaking any activity in connection with carrying out mining operations on a tenement, the activities must be included in a MDCP approved under section 103O(1) of the Mining Act and recorded on an Approvals Statement;
- the Approvals Statement Framework. Approvals Statements will serve as a single source for all approved mining activities across tenements.