The introduction of any cost-recovery fees for processing mining, exploration and prospecting applications will be deferred to complement the passage of major reform legislation, set to benefit the industry through simpler, more streamlined approvals.
Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said he had listened to constructive industry input.
The Minister paid special tribute to Eyre MLA Graham Jacobs, Kalgoorlie MLA Wendy Duncan and Mining and Pastoral Region MLC Mark Lewis for their advocacy.
“Thanks to their work, other funding options have come forward and are now under consideration by my department,” Mr Marmion said.
“I am confident this approach will help reduce confusion and concern.”
Association of Mining and Exploration Companies CEO Simon Bennison said it is extremely positive that the minister has listened to feedback from industry and common sense has prevailed.
“The deferral of new fees for programmes of work and mining licenses, announced today by the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Hon. Bill Marmion, has been well received by industry,” said Simon Bennison, Association of Mining and Exploration Companies, CEO.
“Other funding options should have been the first consideration, not cost recovery of key departmental services.”
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