The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) is calling for “Levelling the Playing Field” to implement land use planning within the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) processes for large-scale solar and wind projects, similar to current mining legislations.
Impact assessments were first introduced in February to incorporate public consultation and third-party appeal rights for solar and wind projects, where mining projects are required to establish a transparent framework for land use.
AMEC says a restructure of the planning system is unnecessary as it does not establish notification processes or compensation mechanisms for mining companies, as the current process provides a framework that is specific to the project.
Mining.com.au reports that the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning recently rejected a proposal for a new wind farm for not abiding the same rigorous approval processes as other resource developments, after 85% of the public asked for the project to be reviewed.
The development of large-scale solar and wind projects is an extension of the federal government’s net zero plan, which will see the country meeting its renewable energy target of 82% by 2035.
Committee hearings on the submission of this bill will occur this week.
Meanwhile, the association has submitted a response to the draft Coroners Amendment Bill 2025 (QLD).
Key changes and implications of the amendments include the appointment of Barrister Wayne Pennell as the Mining and Resources Coroner, as well as the revision of current procedures for mining-related reportable deaths to be directed to the Mining and Resources Coroner.
These amendments will not diminish existing liability of operators with a mandatory coronial inquiry being implemented for reportable deaths.
AMEC is an industry association that represents more than 500 member companies across Australia, including explorers, emerging miners, producers as well as other businesses and service providers within the resources sector.
Mining.com.au is an associate member of AMEC, who will be running a Pitch and Pizza Investor Briefing at this year’s Noosa Mining Conference, which this news service is an official media partner.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: Auric
