Feedback sought over new draft guideline

Stakeholders are being urged to have their say on a new draft guideline aimed at improving the efficiency of environmental regulation of the petroleum industry in Western Australia.

The new ‘Draft Guideline for the Development of Petroleum and Geothermal Environment Plans’ is now available on the Department of Mines and Petroleum’s (DMP) website and is open for public comment until 15 April.

This new draft guideline forms part of DMP’s ongoing Reforming Environmental Regulation (RER) initiative and aims to provide all stakeholders with improved guidance on regulation requirements, approval processes and the DMP’s expectations.

It also seeks to help petroleum and geothermal operators to develop and obtain approval for an Environmental Plan which meets State legislation.

DMP’s Executive Director Environment Dr Phil Gorey said it was important for stakeholders to share their thoughts on the department’s new plans.

“We are firmly committed to engaging fully with stakeholders when the department is planning to introduce any changes,” Dr Gorey said.

“This ensures that any concerns are listened to, understood and addressed to ensure the continued responsible and sustainable development of Western Australia’s resources.”

Once finalised, the new guideline will replace the Guidelines for the Preparation and Submission of an Environment Plan, amended August 2012, and the Environmental Assessment Processes for Petroleum Activities in Western Australia, amended October 2012.

This Draft Guideline for the Development of Petroleum and Geothermal Environment Plans is now available on DMP's website.

Stakeholders are also reminded that the draft Guideline for the Development of an Onshore Oil Spill Contingency Plan and the draft guideline Groundwater Monitoring in the Onshore Petroleum and Geothermal Industry are also currently available for comment on the DMP Website until 6 March 2016.