Mining objection fee set to blindside and burden many in the rural sector

Oct 6, 2023 | Neil Thomson MLC, State News

The State Government’s decision to introduce a prescribed fee for lodgement of objections under the
Mining Act 1978 has outraged pastoralists and graziers across the state, according to Shadow Lands
Minister Neil Thomson.

“This fee will create a considerable cost impost for pastoralists and graziers in areas where there is a high level of mining activity,” Mr Thomson said.

“Some in the pastoral sector report having several applications in a week.

“While having set fees is a positive step, it does seem unreasonable that landowners and leaseholders
have to pay a fee to object to activity on their own land.

“Mining and agriculture are not always mutually exclusive, however where there are concerns by the
landowner, this should be considered without the barrier of significant fees.

“The fee may be appropriate to reduce trivial or malicious objections from third parties, however the
one-size-fits-all approach will lead to unintended consequences.

“Consultation closes on November 21, 2023, and it would seem that many pastoralists and graziers are not yet aware of this new financial challenge coming towards them.”

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