Case Study – Guideline for Mining Proposals in WA implemented

Participants at a Mining Proposal Implementation Workshop discuss key aspects of the new guideline.

The DMP Guideline for Mining Proposals became compulsory for all new projects from 1 January 2017. Released in April 2016, the guideline introduced a risk and outcome-based regulatory framework for mining proposals and is expected to bring a number of benefits, including that each mine site will now only need to have one approved Mining Proposal.

The department held a series of stakeholder forums in Perth and Kalgoorlie to discuss and workshop key aspects of the new guideline. The aim of the forums was to provide information and examples of risk assessments and environmental outcomes, share learnings from the first assessments undertaken, and to facilitate a two-way conversation regarding how DMP will undertake assessments.

A mining proposal is a document prepared by the proponent or tenement holder, containing detailed information on identification, evaluation and management of significant environmental impacts relevant to the proposed mining operations.

The Mining Proposal Reform Industry Reference Group, which comprises industry peak bodies, and industry and environmental consultancy representatives, was an essential partner in drafting and implementing the guideline.