NSW Labor Premier Chris Minns has come to the rescue of a mining project that was halted by federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. The $1 billion gold mine, proposed by Regis Resources at the McPhillamys Gold Project site in New South Wales (NSW), was put on hold when Plibersek invoked section 10 of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act. This section allows Indigenous groups or their representatives to halt a development if they believe it will impact culturally significant areas. In this case, Indigenous groups opposed the use of part of the Belubula River for a tailings dam, citing historical and cultural importance.
The project had received approvals at both state and federal levels, and was expected to create around 1,000 jobs. However, Plibersek’s intervention raised concerns about the project’s future viability. Regis Resources CEO Jim Beyer expressed worries that finding and obtaining approvals for alternative plans could take years and might not even be approved by the government.
In response, Premier Minns assured Regis Resources that any alternative plans would be expedited. He emphasized the importance of mining investments for critical minerals across NSW, including components for renewable energy, which are potentially worth billions and could generate tens of thousands of jobs. Minns also stated that discussions were underway with the mine proponent and that the process would not start from scratch or go back to 2019.
Interestingly, the Orange Local Aboriginal Land Council, the elected body representing Indigenous leaders in the area, did not oppose the mine. This indicates that there may be differing opinions within the Indigenous community regarding the project.
It is worth noting the political dynamics at play in this situation. Premier Minns belongs to the right faction of the Labor Party, while Minister Plibersek is from the left. Despite their political differences, both Minns and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed support for the mine, highlighting the importance of economic development and job creation.
In conclusion, Premier Minns has intervened to address the concerns raised by the halt of the gold mine project. By assuring Regis Resources that alternative plans would be dealt with promptly and not starting from scratch, Minns aims to expedite the approval process. This move is essential to attract mining investments in critical minerals, including those required for renewable energy, and to create thousands of jobs in NSW. While the project had faced opposition from some Indigenous groups, the Orange Local Aboriginal Land Council did not have any objections. The political dynamics between Premier Minns and Minister Plibersek add an interesting dimension to the situation. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the successful implementation of the gold mine while respecting the cultural and historical significance of the area.
