The Morrison Government’s announcement of practical measures to enhance coordination and consistency of major project assessment and approvals in Western Australia is welcome news for Australia’s minerals industry.
Australia’s minerals industry is committed to the protection of our unique environment. Yet regulatory complexity and duplication – including overlapping state and federal processes – delay minerals projects and reduce global competitiveness without improving environmental protection.
The announced measures, including a single digital environmental approvals process and biodiversity database, are positive steps towards a more certain and timely approvals process, supporting both future investment and improved environmental outcomes.
The current review of the EPBC Act and the Productivity Commission’s review provide further opportunities for the Federal Government to act so Australia’s minerals industry can provide more sustainable, highly-skilled jobs and support stronger regional communities.
