The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) is calling for clarity around the support for the mining industry, after federal opposition leader Peter Dutton spoke at various mining conferences.
This week Dutton spoke at the Diggers and Dealers Mining Forum in Kalgoorlie, in which he said there had been several debates and discussions around ways to deliver a “huge surge in mining activity in WA.”
AMEC says Dutton’s comments are widely interpreted as a softening to his opposition of the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive (CMPTI), which he initially criticised shortly after it was announced.
CEO Warren Pearce says at no stage during the opposition leader’s recent trip to Western Australia did he seem to oppose the idea like he once did.
However, Pearce says that having opposition treasurer spokesperson Angus Taylor categorically state on national radio this week that “we don’t support the production credits” seems to undermine the purpose of Dutton’s visit west.
“Mr Dutton has said many times now, as recently as Monday during his trip to Western Australia, that he strongly supports mining in WA. And his decision to spend more time meeting with, and learning more about our industry is welcomed and appreciated,” he says.
“But ultimately, statements of support must be turned into something concrete.”
Pearce says the CMPTI offers incentives to companies and investors to build value-adding facilities in Australia.
“It’s a zero-risk approach. The companies will only receive the incentive, once they have invested, established new facilities, and produce a value-added product,” he says.
“The opposition still has the opportunity to reconsider their position and provide support for this important initiative. Alternatively, they must clearly outline what other support they will provide to emerging industries, if elected to government.”
AMEC says the CPMTI supports emerging industries, which is necessary. The industry advocate pointed to the iron ore sector, which with government support was able to deliver $34.4 billion of economic value to Australiaiin the March 2024 quarter alone.
The tax incentive will also provide security of the country’s supply chains for critical minerals to relieve the dependence on other countries and strengthen Australia’s defensive strategy, AMEC says.
the next federal election is being held on or before 27 September 2025.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Peter Dutton
