WA resources regulatory process takes major step

The WA State Government has made another major step towards streamlining the regulatory approvals process for the resources sector.

Introduced in 2022, the Fast-Tracking Mining Approvals Strategy aims to transform the regulation of resource projects through multiple work streams.

The WA Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS) is inviting stakeholder feedback on the draft Eligible Mining Activity (EMA) Regulations.

The EMA framework will increase the efficiency of applications by introducing a new form of authorisation for certain activities that involve minimal disturbance.

Under the EMA, tenement holders will be able to notify the DEMIRS that they will be undertaking certain eligible activities. These activities can be undertaken following the successful lodgement, resulting in significantly shorter approval timeframes.

WA Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael commented on the new process.

“The Fast-Tracking Mining Approvals Strategy is a key component of the WA Government’s election commitment to streamline project approvals,” he said.

“The strategy is being implemented in multiple work streams and programs in order to reduce assessment timeframes and aims to drive the State’s key economic activities.

“The EMA framework will shorten approval timeframes for certain low-impact activities without compromising environmental outcomes and I look forward to progressing with its implementation.”

DEMIRS consultation will be open for eight weeks and close on July 3.