December quarter report shows strong performance of key approval processes.
| Date: | Wednesday, 04 March 2020 |
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The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety’s (DMIRS) latest approvals performance report shows the department met all of its key approval processes within target timelines.
Notable fourth quarter results included the department finalising 96 per cent of mineral exploration licence applications within the 65 business day target, up from 86 per cent in the first quarter. The time taken to finalise the exploration licences averaged 37 business days, down from 47.9 business days in the first quarter.
Other noteworthy outcomes included the department finalising 98 per cent of Programme of Work applications and 97 per cent of petroleum environment plans within their respective target timelines.
DMIRS Director General David Smith said the December results supported the State Government’s commitment to improve regulatory efficiency and make processes easier for business.
“The approvals reporting has shown impressive results over the past 12 months, and we will continue to work hard to streamline regulation and to make the resources sector more efficient and effective.” he said.
“The exploration performance is particularly pleasing as exploration drilling activities are the bedrock of a sustainable resources industry.
“To see the department’s efficiency improve across the board by addressing all key approvals within target timelines is a great achievement and a credit to the teams involved.”
The Fraser Institute’s Annual Survey of Mining Companies 2019, which rated Western Australia as the world’s top mining jurisdiction for investment attractiveness, also listed WA as Australia’s best jurisdiction for the time taken to issue mining exploration permits.
The full December report can be viewed on the DMIRS website.
