DMIRS is processing applications in record times, supporting an increase in mining exploration in WA
| Date: | Tuesday, 22 August 2017 |
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The second quarter (June quarter) approval performance report showed the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety again surpassed approvals targets, with a record 97 per cent of all applications finalised within target timelines.
The department’s Strategic Projects Senior Advisor, Graham Cobby said there was a significant increase in exploration applications.
“Mineral exploration applications surged during the first half of 2017, with a 40 per cent increase in the number of applications received compared to the second half of 2016,” Mr Cobby said.
“The surge can be attributed to increased gold exploration in the Goldfields region.”
The breakdown of the number of mineral exploration (Programme of Work) applications received per quarter is:
- September 2016 Quarter - 502
- December 2016 Quarter - 421
- March 2017 Quarter - 640
- June 2017 Quarter - 669
The department’s performance has far surpassed its objective to finalise more than 80 per cent of all applications within target timelines.
Target timelines vary according to the type of application. For example, the target time to finalise a Mining Proposal application is 30 business days. The target for a petroleum well application is 40 business days.
