Western Australia’s mining sector is gearing up for a surge in activity thanks to the Cook Government’s latest initiatives to streamline approvals and boost exploration. The government’s recent efforts have significantly reduced the wait times for Program of Work applications and introduced new digital solutions to ease the application process.
Last month, the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS) processed 313 Program of Work applications, marking a substantial reduction in the backlog. This improvement has cut the average wait time for applications from 16 business days to just seven. A Program of Work is essential for starting exploration activities, and this reduction in processing time is expected to accelerate the pace of new projects.
Next month, DEMIRS will roll out Resources Online, a new digital system designed to simplify the submission of mining environmental applications. This move is part of a broader digital transformation programme aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the approvals process. Resources Online will streamline application procedures, improve data collection, and enhance overall customer experience.
One of the key features of Resources Online is the trial of the Eligible Mining Activity framework. This framework identifies activities that do not impact sensitive environments and can be managed with standard conditions. Applications that meet these criteria will be fast-tracked, further speeding up the approvals process for exploration activities.
The government is also renewing its support for exploration through the Exploration Incentive Scheme’s (EIS) Co-funded Drilling Program. This week marks the opening of Round 30 of the programme, which has a track record of stimulating significant discoveries in Western Australia. The previous round saw a strong focus on battery minerals, with 57 per cent of successful projects targeting rare earth elements, lithium, and nickel-cobalt.
Funding available through the EIS ranges from $40,000 to $220,000, and since its inception in 2009, the scheme has awarded more than $215 million. This financial support is crucial for explorers seeking to uncover new mineral deposits and drive future mining developments.
Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael underscored the significance of these initiatives. “Exploration is essential to the development of future mines in WA, and the Cook Government is committed to making the approvals process as efficient as possible,” Michael said. He highlighted that these improvements are not just about reducing wait times but are part of a broader effort to support the state’s mining industry.
Michael also praised the Exploration Incentive Scheme’s Co-funded Drilling Program for its role in advancing the sector. “I am particularly proud of the contribution of the EIS Co-funded Drilling Program, which has already proven its success in supporting explorers to make several significant mineral discoveries across WA,” he added.
These efforts reflect the Cook Government’s commitment to fostering growth in Western Australia’s mining industry. By streamlining approvals and providing financial support, the government is positioning WA as a leading destination for mineral exploration and development.
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