Agreement streamlines regulatory approvals process

DWER and DMIRS review administrative agreement for regulating environmental impacts in the mineral and petroleum resource sectors.
Date: Thursday, 11 March 2021

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) have reviewed and consolidated their administrative agreement that sets out how they will work together to regulate environmental impacts in the mineral and petroleum resource sectors.

The updated Agreement will assist both departments to effectively administer the Mining Act 1978, Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967, Petroleum Pipelines Act 1969, Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1982 and Environmental Protection Act 1986.

“The agreement continues to support both departments in meeting their legislative obligations and responsibilities in the most efficient, fair and transparent manner,” said DMIRS Resource and Environmental Compliance Executive Director Karen Caple.

“It will ensure we deliver consistent and timely advice, reduce administrative overlap and duplication, and apply a risk-based regulatory approach.”

DWER Regulatory Services Executive Director Kelly Faulkner commended both agencies for their collaboration on the agreement, which incorporated and refreshed several existing memoranda of understanding.

“This new agreement streamlines services, and simplifies and standardises the requirements in previous agreements,” she said.

“I am sure that officers from both DWER and DMIRS will welcome its implementation, and its ability to better enable both agencies to work towards shared goals with clear expectations.”