Second quarter shows steady number of mining and petroleum applications
| Date: | Thursday, 10 September 2020 |
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The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety’s (DMIRS) latest approvals performance report reflect a steady second quarter as the resources industry rebounds from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notable results included finalising 98 per cent of mineral exploration licence applications within the 65 business day target. This process averaged 32 business days, down from 42 business days in the first quarter.
Other noteworthy outcomes included the department finalising 99 per cent of Programme of Work applications and 99 per cent of petroleum environment plans within their respective target timelines.
The only exception to the positive trend was the approval of mining leases which was below target. This was largely offset by the 83 per cent of mining lease applications that were finalised within the target timeframe during the 2019/20 financial year.
DMIRS Director General David Smith said the June quarter results supported the State Government’s continued efforts to streamline regulation of the resources sector to reduce barriers and make it easier for business.
“The department’s approval processes continue to improve and we will work hard to maintain these outcomes,” he said.
“Supporting the resources industry during the State’s recovery from the impact of COVID-19 has been a key focus, so our positive first and second quarters have been very encouraging.”
The Quarter 2 2020 DMIRS Approvals Reporting can be viewed online.
