The Western Australian Department of Water and Environment Regulation (DWER) is reportedly looking to alter operating licences of Karara Mining and the Mid West Ports Authority after finding that magnetite dust was being emitted from industrial activities.
The DWER began investigating black dust complaints in the Geraldton area earlier this year, confirming that magnetite dust from nearby operations has been contributing to overall dust pollution around the city.
According to ABC News, a surge of complaints intensified in May this year, as dust from the town’s iron ore operations began coating homes and businesses in coastal parts of the city.
Geraldton residents and community leaders have been calling for Chinese mining company Karara to ensure trains are covered when carrying iron ore from mine to port.
“As a result of this investigation, the department is engaging with Karara Mining Limited and the Mid West Ports Authority in relation to potential licence amendments to deliver improved dust management outcomes,” a DWER spokesperson says.
The government body has not disclosed any changes that will be required of the port or the mining company.
DWER is continuing its investigation of separate complaints regarding pink and red dust. These investigations are reported to be near completion.
“While substantial information has been assessed, further technical analysis is needed before conclusions can be reached regarding other dust sources or potential regulatory action,” DWER says.
“Such investigations can take time to ensure evidence is thoroughly assessed, findings are supported by evidence and processes are fair and defensible.”
Karara Mining operates its namesake iron ore project, located 220km southeast of Geraldton.
Western Australia is the world’s largest supplier of iron ore and accounted for around 28% of the world’s crude iron ore reserves in 2023, according to the WA Government’s Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
In the year to March 2026, the state delivered 926 million tonnes of iron ore exports, representing a 4.4% increase from the year to March 2025.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Main Image: Karara Mining
