2014 Premier’s Awards

DMP's Mining Rehabilitation Fund has missed out to the Department of Housing in the 2014 Premier’s Awards 

The Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) has missed out on the 2014 Premier’s Award after being shortlisted as a finalist in the Developing the Economy category.

DMP was nominated for developing and implementing the Mining Rehabilitation Fund (MRF).

Developing the Economy recognises projects that maximise opportunities for the future through stimulating the economy to support employment and growth in Western Australia.

DMP Director General Richard Sellers said that despite not winning the category, it was extremely pleasing that the department’s efforts in stimulating jobs and the economy had been recognised.

“To have been judged a finalist alongside such strong projects was an honour and recognises the hard work the department has put in to developing this global benchmark in mining reform,” Mr Sellers said.

“Although not taking out the Award this year, the nomination goes a long way in publicising the success of the MRF to those outside the mining industry.”

Mr Sellers congratulated category winner, Department of Housing, who also went on to win the overall award for the Equity Expressions of Interest (EOI) program.

The MRF is a first of its kind, new pooled fund contributed to by Western Australian mining operators and largely replaces the holding of unconditional performance bonds.

“The MRF has freed up millions of dollars previously held in bonds that are now available to put towards future investment,” Mr Sellers said.

Premier Colin Barnett presented the awards at a ceremony held at the Office of the Premier and Cabinet on Wednesday 5 November.

The awards recognise outstanding initiatives and extraordinary achievements in the Western Australian public sector.