Project 1.3

Mapping the regulatory framework of mine closure

Final Report, Project 1.3 – Mapping the Regulatory Framework of Mine Closure
Report, Project 1.3 – Practice Mapping Options: Ensham Coal Mine Case Study
Report, Project 1.3 – Regulation of Mine Closure Planning and Pilbara Agreements Case Study
Report, Project 1.3 – Rehabilitation of the Latrobe Valley Coal Mines – Integrating regulation of mine rehabilitation and planning for land and water use

Research Program

Regional Economic Development

Project Leader

Professor Alex Gardner

Project ID

1.3

Summary

This project will map the Australian regulatory framework for mine rehabilitation and review the experience in applying that framework to site rehabilitation, closure, and tenure relinquishment in the transition to post-mining land uses that benefit regional development. The terms ‘regulation’ and ‘regulatory framework’ refer to relevant laws, policies and guidelines, which may include those published by non-state organisations to guide industry membership. The terms ‘rehabilitation and repurposing’ will be used to refer succinctly to the entire process of rehabilitation through to the transition to post-mining land uses.

We aim to identify how the regulatory framework facilitates mine rehabilitation and repurposing, as well as when and where elements of the framework may block, undermine or conflict with goals of mine rehabilitation and repurposing contributing to regional development. We will also seek to ascertain if there are regulatory gaps that frustrate the achievement of those goals, and the potential for defining principles to harmonise the applicable mining, environmental, water resources and land use regulation within states and territories and nationally.

Stage 1 Project Video

Part 1 Stage 2 Project Video

Part 2 Stage 2 Project Video

Project Partners

BHP; Murdoch University; Rio Tinto; University of Queensland; University of Western Australia; Central Highlands Development Corporation; Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, Victorian Government; Department of Resources, Queensland Government; Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, Western Australian Government; Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, West Australian Government; Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Victorian Government; Highlands Environmental; Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority; Pilbara Development Commission; Planning 4 Sustainable Development Pty Ltd; Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation; Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation; The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA; Roy Hill

Duration

18 months