- Trial of the eligible mining activity framework set for launch
- Trial will allow government to evaluate the operation of the EMA criteria
- Process looks to streamline approvals that pose a low risk to the environment
A trial to assess a new authorisation process for low impact mining activities in Western Australia's mining sector has started today.
The eligible mining activity (EMA) framework trial is seen as a responsible way for the Cook Government to evaluate a significant change to its environmental assessment regime in the mining sector.
The Government's intent is to streamline the approval of eligible mining activities that pose a low risk to the environment and do not occur in sensitive areas. This will ensure the activities remain subject to a robust regulatory framework.
As another deliverable from the Fast-Tracking Mining Approval reforms introduced in 2022, the trial will run until the framework is implemented later this year.
During this time, the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety will assess Programmes of Work under the Mining Act that meet the eligibility criteria within one business day.
The evaluation of the framework follows an extensive eight-week public consultation in 2024.
Once the trial is over, tenement holders will be able to get an automatic authorisation to undertake eligible mining activities after they lodge a mandatory EMA notice. These notices will be subject to a standard set of prescribed requirements.
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael:
"The Cook Government remains committed to ensuring best-practice regulatory frameworks are in place to facilitate responsible resources development.
"While we are working hard to streamline mining approval processes, at no point will we compromise on environmental and social standards.
"I firmly believe these regulatory reforms for low-impact mining activities will boost mineral exploration across the State without impacting WA's robust environmental protections."
