The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) has reported that it has cut its exploration assessment timeframes in half.
The achievement makes good on the Department’s announcement in February that it would be streamlining its approval timeframe target from 30 to 15 business days.
At the end of July, the Department said it had finalised 99 per cent — or 202 out of 204 — Program of Work (PoW) applications within the 15 business day target.
An explorer or prospector must lodge a PoW application before drilling, clearing tracks or using any mechanised equipment for ground disturbing activities.
The PoW application must meet the required environmental expectations, which have not changed with the implementation of the new timeframe.
Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Bill Johnston congratulated the Department saying it got off to a flying start.
“Well done to all staff involved,” Mr Johnston said.
“The reduction will have a direct benefit to the mining industry and will promote economic activity in the regions,” he said.
“The Government supports an efficient regulatory system that provides appropriate environmental safeguards; we will continue to streamline regulation of the resources sector to reduce barriers and create jobs.”
The Minister said that fast-tracking new mining opportunities was a key part of the pandemic recovery plan and would continue to keep the State in a strong economic position.
