Alcoa backs out of Perth Hills bauxite plans

Alcoa Australia (ASX: AAI) has removed areas in the Perth Hills from proposed exploration plans due to “local stakeholder and community feedback”.

The decision reflects input received during the WA Environmental Protection Authority’s (WA EPA) recent public comment period concerning “low-impact” drilling activity.

“Community and stakeholder consultation is an important part of Alcoa’s planning for the future,” Alcoa regulatory approvals director Kane Moyle said.

“While exploration drilling is a low-impact activity and does not indicate an intention to mine an area but rather to broaden geological knowledge of the region, we understand the strong environmental and social values of the Perth Hills to local communities and the broader public.

“We listened to feedback and are making changes that will be reflected in both MMPs.”

The miner still has plans before the WA EPA including the previously approved 2023-2027 MMP which includes potential future exploration drilling areas within the Armadale, Kalamunda, Mundaring, Beverley and York local government areas.

Changes will now be progressed through a requested amendment to the 2023-27 MMP proposal and by amending the 2025-29 MMP, which will soon be presented to the Minister for State Development for endorsement.

Shire of Mundaring president Paige McNeil says the announcement reflects the strength of community concern and the shared commitment to protecting the world’s only jarrah forest.

“This is a significant win for our community and our environment.” she said

“This outcome reinforces that strong community advocacy matters.

“We thank Alcoa for taking the time to listen to our community and for recognising the strong environmental values of the Perth Hills. Their environmentally responsible decision demonstrates respect for those values and sets an important expectation for any future exploration or mining interests in our shire.”

The Shire of Mundaring says that while Alcoa has withdrawn its proposed exploration areas, other companies may seek access in the future. As a result, the Shire has put forward a motion to the WA Local Government Association for stronger protections for the Perth Hills.

The motion asks the state to prohibit exploration and mining in designated water-catchment areas and to recognise their importance for drinking water, biodiversity and community amenity. It also calls for early and genuine engagement with local governments in any future review of State Agreement Acts and in approval processes related to exploration, mine planning or development.