A recording of the online industry briefing session held in August 2025 is available:
Commencement
When does the new MDCP and Approvals Statement framework commence?
The MDCP and Approvals Statement framework commences from 9 September 2025, which is when the Mining Amendment Act 2022 comes into effect.
Can I submit a MDCP before 9 September 2025?
No, you will need to submit a Mining Proposal (including a Mine Closure Plan) that meets the form and content of the existing statutory guidelines. We encourage applicants to consider using the Department of Mines, Petroleum, and Exploration (DMPE) standard risk assessment framework and standard environmental and closure outcomes in their Mining Proposal.
Please note, to facilitate a smooth transition to the new MDCP and Approvals Statement framework you will be unable to submit a Mining Proposal to the department through EARS online from 2 September 2025.
What happens if the Mining Proposal I submitted is still being assessed when the new framework commences?
Mining Proposals submitted to DMPE prior to the 9th of September will continue to be assessed. There are transition provisions that mean any Mining Proposals that are lodged prior to the commencement of the MDCP framework but are still under assessment and awaiting a decision by DMPE at the time of commencement will be taken to be a MDCP and an Approvals Statement will be issued following assessment and approval of the activities.
If you are unsure of where your Mining Proposal application is at in regard to the assessment process, in the first instance please reach out to the relevant Team Leader. For Team Leader contact detail please refer to the following contacts page: Environment Contacts
Lodgement
Will an MDCP be able to be submitted to support the grant of a Mining Lease?
Yes.
Will my existing EARS online login details work for Resources Online, or will I need a new login?
Proponents can access Resources Online via https://resourcesonline.demirs.wa.gov.au/ through DEMIRS My Account. If the proponent has an existing EARS Online EX account, they can sign in to Resources Online using the email address and password associated with the EX account. If the password does not meet the new password requirement, the proponent will be prompted to update this.
Refer to My Account for more information.
New proponents who have never held an EX account will need to create a new DMPE My Account to access Resources Online. This process is simple and will require the proponent to enter an email address, first and last name, and create a passphrase containing 14 characters or more. The online wizard steps will guide new users through this process.
Is there a size limit for documents uploaded through Resources Online for MDCP and Mine Closure Plan submissions?
Yes, the size limit for file upload is 1GB. Documents uploaded as confidential attachments are limited to 70MB.
Can multiple MDCPs be submitted concurrently for the same Mining Environmental Group (MEG)? Why is only one MDCP allowed at a time?
No. When a MDCP is lodged for Mining Environmental Group (MEG) another MDCP application cannot be lodged until the first application has been finalised. Resources Online will prevent submission of a second MDCP for the same MEG whilst there is open MDCP application.
The decision to allow only one MDCP application per MEG is to ensure an effective assessment/business process. Data for the Approvals Statement is stored directly in Resources Online, meaning this data can be pre-populated for proponents when lodging an MDCP to amend their existing Approvals Statement. If a second draft MDCP is started whilst another is in draft (or in assessment) there is the potential for a resulting Approvals Statement to not contain the latest information (i.e. not contain information proposed in the other draft). This approach is already undertaken by companies who operate under one Mining Proposal for their site (MEG).
The holistic approach of the new MDCP and Approvals Statement framework is to streamline the approvals process to ensure assessments can be completed in a timely manner. The framework has been designed to allow for flexibility in mining operations where these changes won’t impact on risk or outcomes thus reducing the need to seek approvals for minor amendments.
DMPE strongly encourages forward planning from tenement holders/operators to consolidate MDCP submissions wherever possible.
Why can’t I see the Mining Environmental Group (MEG) I want to lodge MDCP/MCP against in Resources Online?
In order to see/be able to select the relevant MEG, your My Account must be linked to the relevant entity/operator. To determine who is the designated operator for a particular MEG, you can use Resource Online public search to look up the MEG/project, this will display the designated operator Public Search - Resources Online.
Once you have located your MEG and operator, you can request to represent this operator by following this guide Requesting authorisation to act on behalf of a business. To do this, you will need a My Account. This request will be sent to the operator's current administrator, who will review the request for approval or rejection. Ensure that you have written authorisation from the operator you're wishing to lodge for if you're contacted about your request, as the absence of an administrator will prompt our team to contact you about your relationship to the operator in question.
If you believe the operator is incorrect, please contact: resourcesonline@dmpe.wa.gov.au
Dead tenements are also showing on the tenement list when I’m lodging a MDCP
There is a known issue where dead tenements are displaying in the list of tenements associated with a MEG and will be resolved. Please continue to lodge MDCP/MCP application as usual. An approvals statement will only be issued for live tenements.
Can I use the old Mining Proposal Guidelines to submit a MDCP?
No. Under section 103AN(3)(d) of the Mining Act 1978 (Mining Act) a MDCP must include detailed information regarding the mining operations, decommissioning, rehabilitation, closure outcomes and include any prescribed information. The prescribed information required is outlined in the Mining Regulations 1981 (Regulations) and further detailed in the Guideline for Preparing Mining Development and Closure Proposal. Only a MDCP submitted in accordance with Mining Act and Regulations and will be accepted for assessment.
If you submit an MDCP that follows the old Mining Proposal / Mine Closure Plan guidelines, the application will be declined. The following fact sheets highlight some key differences between the new guidelines and the previous guidelines: MDCP Fact Sheet.
When should I remove tenements from the Mining Environmental Group (MEG) when submitting a MDCP?
Only remove tenements from the MEG page on the lodgement of an MDCP if you want to permanently remove the tenement from the MEG. This page lists all tenements included in the MEG, not just the tenements where proposed activities are occurring for the submitted MDCP.
What is the purpose of the native vegetation clearing column in Resources Online?
The purpose of the “total area of native vegetation to be cleared” column allows DMPE to record cumulative clearing impacts from mining operations. This column should be updated each time an MDCP is lodged for the MEG as it is intended to record the cumulative clearing impacts of that MEG.
For example, if the first MDCP lodged requires 10 ha of native vegetation clearing and then an amendment MDCP is lodged proposes an additional 5 ha of native vegetation clearing, the amendment MDCP should adjust the number for the appropriate tenement to be 15 ha.
I have an existing approved mining operation, and I want to expand or change the mining activities, do I need to submit a MDCP for the entire operation or just for the new activities?
No, tenement holders/operators do not need to submit a MDCP to seek approval for existing activities. Existing mining operations can continue to operate under this existing approval documents issued under the Mining Act 1978.
Tenement holders/operators can submit an Amendment MDCP for new mining activities on an existing Mining Environmental Group as a whole of site MDCP is not required.
Assessment
What is the anticipated benefit with regards to timeframes for operators? Currently the assessment timeframe puts significant pressure on operations.
The introduction of MDCPs and Approvals Statements will reduce duplication and create efficiencies in assessment processes and approval document preparation, as well as for monitoring compliance with approvals.
What is the expected assessment timeframe for a MDCP application?
The department will retain the target timeframe 80% of MDCP finalised within 30 business days.
Will there be a streamline process for MDCP that are lodged to address critical works? For example amendments to TSF to allow continued operation after weather events.
In accordance with the department’s Environmental Applications Administrative Procedures, accelerated assessment will be considered in exceptional circumstances, and specially where the applicant has demonstrated that the approval is needed:
- to address an immediate safety hazard;
- to prevent significant environmental harm from occurring or continuing;
- in response to an emergency event;
- to address an error made by us in issuing a previous approval; or
- for the approval of an application when existing tenure has been converted to a new form of tenure, however subsequent approval is required on the new tenure. This will only apply when it is demonstrated the activities are the same as those previously authorised on the area. For example, assessment of Programme of Work application when a Prospecting or Exploration Licence is converted to a Mining Lease, however the Programme was previously approved on the preceding tenure.
A decision to prioritise assessments will not compromise the quality of the decision made by the department.
What is the process for review of the Mine Closure Plan if I am submitting a MDCP for changes to an existing operation?
The MDCP will only need to address the closure outcomes for the specific activities/amendments requested in that MDCP. An approvals statement will be issued recording the relevant closure outcomes for the mining activities approved and recording the due date for the next Mine Closure Plan. The department will ensure the due date for Mine Closure Plan submission for mining operation is aligned across tenement conditions and any Approvals Statement issued.
I can’t find the request for further information I have been sent
Once a request for further information has been sent by DMPE to you, in Resources Online you should be able to click into this RFI tab and click on the RFI item needing your attention. From here you should be able to click on the RFI item name and scroll down and click on the relevant attachments. This will be where the MDCP RFI letter is located, which will have tables with RFI items that require responses. This attachment should be downloaded, completed and then reattached and sent back to DMPE as part of the RFI response through Resources Online.
Please note that Substitute MDCPs will not go to the RFI tab, these instead go to the lodged proposals section. This makes a facility in Resources Online where you can upload a new MDCP document and submit it.
Further information on responding to a RFI on Resources Online can be found here – Responding to a Request for Information (RFI)
Why did my MDCP application get declined?
Once the MDCP application is lodged through Resources online the application is screened in accordance with DMPE’s Environmental Applications Administrative Procedures, to determine it meets our requirements so the assessment process can begin.
The screening process will:
- verify whether the form and content of the application is in accordance with the requirements of the relevant legislation;
- identify whether the operator, Mining Environmental Group (MEG), and relevant title details are correct;
- identify whether all required attachments accompany the environmental application; and
- identify whether there are any constraints on the acceptance of applications.
If screening requirements are meet the application will procced for environmental assessment or application will be declined it if it does not. Upon being declined the applicant will be provided reasoning as to why the MDCP application was declined as part of the notification, such as the incorrect MEG was selected, incorrect/missing shapefile etc.
Approvals Statement
Is the Approvals Statement similar to a Ministerial Statement?
Yes. The Approvals Statement will record the nature and extent of the mining activities approved under the Mining Act 1978 for specified mining tenure, the relevant environmental conditions and associated mine closure outcomes.
How does the Approvals Statement interact with existing tenement conditions? Once an Approval Statement is issued, will existing environmental conditions (such as annual environmental reporting and mine closure plan conditions) be removed from tenements?
Environmental conditions related to the mining operation will be recorded in the Approvals Statement. Where appropriate the department will be update tenement conditions as part of MDCP assessment process or transition process.
Will tenement holders/operators have the opportunity to review the 'draft' Approval Statement prior to finalisation? How are commitments/outcomes discussed if the proponent has queries about the issued ones?
Yes, a draft of the Approvals Statement will be provided to the tenement holder/operator for review prior to issue.
During assessment of the MDCP, the assessing officer will discuss any changes to outcomes or additional environmental conditions required with the tenement holder/operator.
Comments on the draft Approvals Statement, can be provided to the department for consideration during the tenement holder/operator review period.
Does an Approvals Statement get issued/re-issued upon completion of Mine Closure Plan review. If a Mine Closure Plan compliance update is upcoming and submitted prior to 9 September using the old framework, will this also issue an Approvals Statement as it sounds like current Mining Proposals (MP) under assessment will be doing?
If there is no existing Approvals Statement for the associated mining operation, the due date for the next Mine Closure Plan will continue to be recorded in the tenement conditions. Submission of the Mine Closure Plan does not trigger the generate of a new Approvals Statement.
If there is an existing Approvals Statement for the associated mining operation, the Approvals Statement will be updated and re-issued to reflect the next Mine Closure Plan revision date if applicable.
Amending an Approvals Statement
Is the notification of minor changes to a mining proposal pro-forma still applicable to an Approvals Statement?
No. The intent of the Mining Development and Closure Proposal and Approvals Statement framework is to provide flexibility and reduce the need for minor amendments.
When you are amending an Approvals Statement, do you need to submit a new MDCP or do you amend the previously submitted MDCP?
Where a mining operation has an existing Approvals Statement, the MDCP submitted only needs to provide details on the aspects for which approval is required (i.e., the expansion or additions to the mining operation). MCDP are not versioned documents and should be a standalone document which specifically addressed the expansions/additions or changes for which approval is required.
What information is expected to be in a MDCP if only a to change closure outcomes recorded on the Approvals Statement is requested?
The MDCP submitted should be utilised to discuss the proposed changes to the closure outcomes. The MDCP submitted will still need to meet the form and content requirements as set out in the Mining Act and regulation however sections can indicate there is no change to information previously presented. Where changes to environmental and closure outcomes are proposed, appropriate justification is required.
If an "area of land" were to change land use during the year (for example, converting a section of mine void to evaporation pond as commonly seen in mineral sands mining), would that necessitate lodgement of MDCP to amend the Approvals Statement?
No, it shouldn’t. Please refer to Table 1 and Table 2 in the Guideline for Preparing Mining Development and Closure Proposals which provides relevant examples of overlapping mining activities. Tables 1 and 2 cater for overlapping activities, if this is specified in the MDCP.
MDCP guidelines
Does the environmental data and analysis section of the MDCP only intend to address the proposed activities, and not the entire Approvals Statement Activity Envelope?
An initial MDCP for a greenfields site is likely to be required to consider the baseline information for the entire Approvals Statement activity envelope.
Where an Approvals Statement has already been issued and the tenement holder is seeking an amendment to the Approvals Statement through submission of MDCP, the environmental data section should be relevant to the changes being proposed.
If these changes are substantial amendments, then it may be necessary to undertake additional environmental studies and ensure this information is incorporated into the MDCP.
Will there be an expectation to complete heritage and flora/fauna surveys for the entirety of an activity envelope pre-MDCP approval? Or can conditions be included to survey prior to progressive disturbance?
Assessment of the MDCP will consider the likely environmental impact(s) and risks of the proposed mining activities within the extent of the activity envelope, as well as closure and rehabilitation of these activities. For this reason, applicants will need to ensure environmental information provided in a MDCP considers the entire activity envelope. The level of environmental information required will be based on the nature, scale, and location of the mining operations.
Table 3 as presented in the legislation framework section of the MDCP guidelines of the requires information on the environmental approvals or regulatory requirements issued by other agencies. Often approvals under the Mining Act 1978 are undertaken in parallel to other agency environmental assessments. Does this mean you need to update Table 3 after you receive other agencies approval?
It is acknowledged that at time of submission of a MDCP the approval conditions/outcome from other agencies may not be known. In these scenarios, the MDCP submission should be considerate of the current stage of other agency assessment processes or may need to include all the relevant information on the key environmental factors to ensure further information is not required later in the parallel assessment process.
Will the department accept any changes to the standard environmental and closure outcomes phrasing? Can standard environmental and closure outcomes be replaced with site specific outcomes?
The purpose of the standard outcomes is to ensure consistency, therefore if the phrasing of a standard outcome is changed, it will be considered a site-specific outcome.
Circumstances where site specific outcomes might be appropriate include where tenement holder/operators consider the standard outcomes are not applicable or appropriate and wish to propose an alternative outcome. Sufficient justification should be provided.
Is the activity envelope just a new term for disturbance envelope?
Under the new framework activity envelope has replaced disturbance envelope to better align with terminology used in the Mining Amendment Act 2022.
Can a tenement be recorded on two different Mining Environmental Groups?
Yes, a tenement can be part of two different MEGs.
I was issued an Approvals Statement for a Small Mining Operation, how do I now lodge a standard MDCP for the same MEG as I want to expand my operations?
Resources Online will provide warning when attempting to lodge a standard MDCP for a MEG where the is currently an Approvals Statement for a Small Mining Operation. A standard MDCP can be lodged, however activities approved under the Small Mining Operations Approvals Statement will not pre-populated into activity details tables and may need to be re-entered during lodgement of the standard MDCP.
I have a standard mining operation with an Approvals Statement, can I now lodge a Small Operations MDCP?
DMPE has developed a Small Mining Operations Policy which provides guidance on what DMPE considers to be a small mining operation. Where an operation does not meet the criteria outlined in the Small Mining Operations Policy, it is unlikely to be accepted as suitable to submit via the small mining operations form and will require a standard MDCP.
The MDCP and Approvals Statement framework has been developed with the intent to allow flexibility for mining operations and reduce the need for minor amendments for larger scale operations.
Resources Online will provide warning when attempting to submit a Small Mining Operations MDCP for a MEG where standard MDCP was lodged and Approvals Statement issued, as previously captured data such mining activities will not be pre-populated. If you have previously lodged standard MDCP and had Approvals Statement issued, and now wish to lodge Small Mining Operation MDCP, it is strongly recommended you discuss with the relevant regional Team Leader prior to lodging to ensure that this is the correct process for your MEG.
Activity details
The total mining activity table (Table 1 in the MDCP guidelines) asks for information on the total area of native vegetation to be cleared, what is the expectation for calculation of this value?
This column has been included to differentiate between activity area (footprint) vs how much native vegetation clearing will occur. For example, if the activity area is 100 hectares but half that area has already been cleared for agriculture, then only 50 hectares of native vegetation clearing is required.
Where no new native vegetation clearing is required for the activities proposed in the MDCP this column can record a zero-hectare value.
How should underground activities be defined in the key mining activity details table (Table 2 in the MDCP guidelines)?
Please refer to the example presented in Table 2 of the Guideline for Preparing Mining Development and Closure Proposals.
If access to the underground is via an open pit mining void, it is recommended the underground is added as separate line/activity from the open pit mining void in the key mining activities details table (Table 2). This will ensure it is very clear on the Approvals Statement that underground activities are an approved activity. The nature and extent column in Table 2 should be used to provide some basic parameters for the underground operation such as maximum depth and lateral extent.
When seeking spatial extensions to key mining activities previously approved under a Mining Proposal, does the MDCP propose the amended landform as a whole, or just the extension of the activity area?
This will need to be considered on a case-by-case basis. There may be some scenarios where it is appropriate to only include the extension of the key mining activity. However, in general, the department recommends the activity details tables and outcomes and conditions relate to whole complete features.
If you are unsure as to the features/activities to be included, please talk to the relevant Team Leader to discuss the scope of the MDCP.
Does the total mining activity table (Table 1 in the MDCP guidelines), activity area value(s) only relate to proposed disturbance (and not previously approved areas), or is it a combined value of past and approved areas? i.e. Are activity overlaps with previously approved areas excluded?
Where a mining operation has an existing Approvals Statement, the MDCP submitted only needs to provide details on the aspects for which approval is being sought (i.e. the expansion or additions to the mining operation) this would include table 1 and 2. Information entered directly into Resources Online will be available to edit when lodging a MDCP to amend an existing Approvals Statement. The Approvals Statement will record the total/combined mining activities and associated disturbance areas for the mining operation.
DMPE standardised risk assessment
Is it mandatory to use the departments risk assessment framework as operators often have their own risk framework that is used in all site risk assessment processes?
Yes, it is mandatory to use the department’s standardised risk framework in the MDCP and Mine Closure Plan documents lodged. A standard risk assessment framework has been developed to ensure consistency and efficient in assessment and review of MDCP and Mine Closure Plan documents. The framework is based on the department’s environmental factors and objectives
Is there a set level where residual risk becomes an unacceptable risk rating (this is specified for inherent risks, but not residual risk), or is it subject to a case-by-case consideration?
This will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
The department’s standard risk assessment framework includes factors typically relevant for a mining operation except for social surroundings. Aspects such as noise, vibration, light and heritage appear to be missing from the risk assessment process.
The environmental risk assessment framework was developed based on DMPE’s environmental objectives which set out the environmental factors that will be considered during the decision making process. Aspects such as noise, vibrations, dust and lighting generated from mining activities should be considered in the context of impacts to the environmental factors (flora vegetation and fauna, inland waters, terrestrial environmental quality and rehabilitation and mine closure) and whether activities can be managed to ensure DMPE environmental objectives can be met.
It is a requirement that the MDCP includes details of the stakeholder engagement undertaken. It is the department’s expectation that adequate consultation is undertaken with key stakeholders including neighbouring landholders or impacted communities to understand and manage potential impacts. Outcomes from the stakeholder engagement should be used to inform the mine plan and development of environmental and closure outcomes.
Impacts to Aboriginal heritage sites is regulated under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972. The department would expect this aspect to be addressed in the MDCP through the stakeholder engagement section, to demonstrate appropriate consultation has occurred to understand the values of the area, through the legislative framework section, to demonstrate where relevant approvals or regulatory requirements apply, and the environmental and social setting section, which should provide an overview of heritage values as appropriate.
Does the department expect all standard environmental and closure outcomes are adopted in the MDCP or only where inherent risks are rated moderate or high?
Standard environmental and closure outcomes should be included in the MDCP where the relevant risk pathway exists.
A particular standard outcome may not be required where it can be demonstrated that the risk pathway is directly regulated by another agency or regulatory requirement, or where it can be demonstrated that the outcome is not relevant as no relevant risk pathway exists.
How do I specify in the risk assessment that a risk pathway is regulated by another agency?
A risk pathway that is directly regulated by another agency or covered by another regulatory requirement is to be described in the Legislative Framework section of the MDCP and does not need to be repeated in the risk assessment. However, the risk assessment will need to consider the different phases of mine life when considering whether a risk pathway is regulated by another agency. For example, risk pathways related to direct clearing of native vegetation may be regulated under a Native Vegetation Clearing Permits, however indirect impacts to native vegetation from construction and operation of mining activities will not be regulated under the clearing permit.
It can be demonstrated that a risk pathway is regulated by a regulatory instrument from another agency in the risk register table. In this table the regulatory instrument can be mentioned in the risk treatment, environmental outcome, or the comments section.
Existing operations
I have an existing operation, do I need to submit an MDCP for my entire existing operation following commencement of the new framework?
No, tenement holders/operators do not need to submit a MDCP to seek approval for existing activities. Existing mining operations can continue to operate under this existing approval documents issued under the Mining Act 1978.
During the transition period (10 years with the possibility for extension by the Minister for Mines and Petroleum or the DMPE Director General), the Minister can issue an Approvals Statement for a previously approved mining operation based on previous approvals documentation.
The department will undertake a transition program to ensure existing operations are transitioned to an Approval Statement in a timely and efficient manner.
I have an existing approved mining operation, and I want to expand or change the mining activities, do I need to submit a MDCP for the entire operation or just for the new activities?
Tenement holders/operators can submit a MDCP for only new mining activities or changes to activities and will be issued an Approvals Statement that relates specifically to those new mining activities.
When seeking spatial extensions to key mining activities previously approved under a Mining Proposal, does the MDCP propose the amended landform as a whole, or just the extension of the activity area?
This will need to be considered on a case-by-case basis. There may be some scenarios where it is appropriate to only include the extension of the key mining activity. However, in general, the department recommends the activity details tables and outcomes and conditions relate to whole complete features.
Transition program
What is the transition program?
Under the transition provision, the Minister can issue an Approval Statement for a previously approved mining operation based on previous approvals documentation during a period of transition (10 years from commencement date with possibility for extension). The simplicity of administering one framework is beneficial for government, industry, and the community. It is a priority for the department to ensure existing mining operations can be transitioned in a timely manner
The department will run a program for transition of existing mining operations to an Approvals Statement (transition program).
The transition program will be department-led; all existing Environmental Group Sites (EGS) (to be transitioned to Mining Environmental Group (MEG) under the new framework) have been prioritised based on a number of factors including scale and complexity of operations, life of mine and type and status of approvals.
Tenement holders do not need to contact the department to request transition, the department will contact tenement holders to commence the transition process.
As part of the transition process tenement holder/operators will be requested to review and complete a template to ensure the information required to be recorded on the Approvals Statement is captured in the appropriate format. Following receipt of the completed template and information requested, the department will provide a draft Approvals Statement to review prior to be being formally issued.
The transition program does not involve a new environmental assessment, it is a consolidation and translation of previously approved activities and associated outcomes and conditions to an Approvals Statement.
Where a project has multiple MPs approved under pre-2016 guidelines and the proponent would like to consolidate into one MP with minor activity amendments, how would/can that process be managed through the MDCP framework?
DMPE strongly discourages proponents from submitting a transition MDCP which includes all existing activities across an entire MEG. It is recommended MDCP only address new mining activities or changes to existing activities The department will undertake a separate transition program to ensure existing operations are transitioned to an Approval Statement in a timely and efficient manner.
If I submit a MDCP for new mining activities part of an existing operation, will it trigger all previous approvals to be transferred onto an Approvals Statement?
No, following assessment of the MDCP, if the activities are approved, an Approvals Statement will be issued that relates specifically to the new mining activities.
The department will undertake a separate transition program to ensure existing operations are transitioned to an Approval Statement in a timely and efficient manner.
Will the department provide the transition schedule for existing mining operations to transition to an Approvals Statement?
No, the department will be taking a systematic approach based on the prioritisation schedule, however the process will also be dynamic and respond to changes in circumstances for mining operations.
Can I use the transition process to seek approval for new mining activities part of my existing mining operation?
No, if you require changes to your mining operation beyond what is outlined in the existing approvals under the Mining Act 1978, you will need to lodge a MDCP through Resources Online.
Mine Closure Plans Guidelines
Is it mandatory to use the department’s standard closure outcomes in the Mine Closure Plan submitted for an existing mining operation?
It is recommended the department’s standard closure outcomes are adopted where relevant. Site specific closure outcomes can be proposed where it is considered the standard outcomes are not appropriate. The Mine Closure Plan should provide appropriate justification where site specific closure outcomes are proposed.
For greenfields projects with no existing Mine Closure Plan what is the standard timeframe for submission of a Mine Closure Plan after the Approval Statement is issued?
The due date for submission of a Mine Closure Plan will be specified on the Approvals Statement issued following assessment of the MDCP. The review date for a Mine Closure Plan will be based on factors such as expected life of mine, the quality of the closure information previously presented to DMPE, and number of knowledge gaps remaining. The level of information required in a Mine Closure Plan should be reflective of the stage of mine development with an increasing level of detail required as the mine moves towards closure.
What is the form and content of a Mine Closure Plan revision after 9 September 2025?
Following commencement of the Amendment Act, a Mine Closure Plan is required to be prepared in accordance with the department’s revised Guideline for Preparing Mine Closure Plans (2025).
Will Mine Closure Plans be made publicly available?
Yes, approved Mine Closure Plans will continue to be made publicly available and will be able to be accessed through public search portal in Resources Online.
Information in the Mine Closure Plan is confidential (such as closure cost estimate), how do I ensure this information is not made publicly available?
When submitting the Mine Closure Plan, please ensure any confidential is submitted as a separate attachment under the confidential attachments upload function in Resources Online.
How do I lodge my Mine Closure Plan?
Under section 103AT of the Mining Act 1978 Mine Closure Plans (MCPs) are to be lodged via Resources Online similar to an MDCP and must provide the information prescribed in the Mining Act 1978 and Mining Regulations 1981. The form and content requirements for MCPs are further detailed in the Guideline for preparing Mine Closure Plans.
Small Operations MDCP
What is the definition of small mining operations under the new framework?
The definition of a small mining operation has not substantially changed.
The department considers a small mining operation to be defined as:
- Scraping and detecting.
- Dry blowing.
- Wet and dry gravity separation activities.
- The following activities for a total footprint for the mining operation of 10 hectares (ha) or less:
- Mining excavations (such as pits, costeans, quarries, shafts, winzes, harvesting, and dredging), leaching operations (such as Carbon-in-Pulp (CIP), Carbon-in-Leach (CIL), vat leach, and heap leach), tailings treatment operations, crushing and screening, and any other appropriate mining or extraction activities.
- Any construction activities incidental or conducive to the activities above including plant, tailings storage facilities, and overburden stockpiles.
The department generally considers that a small mining operation does not involve the mining of uranium, mineral sands, or rare earth elements.
What is required when uploading a Small Operations MDCP?
The department has developed a Mining Development and Closure Proposal for Small Mining Operations form which will be available on the department website.
The completed MDCP for small mining operations form must be lodged to the department using Resources Online.
When lodging a small operations MDCP, the completed MDCP form is required to be uploaded along with spatial envelope or site plan to complete the lodgement process through Resources Online.
Can the MDCP for small mining operations form be used to seek approvals for amendments to mining operations that are not considered a small mining operation?
No, the MDCP for small mining operations form has been developed to assist operators where their mining operations met the relevant criteria.
The MDCP and Approvals Statement framework has been developed with the intent to allow flexibility for mining operations and reduce the need for minor amendments for larger scale operations.
Reporting and compliance
How do I submit the environmental report to demonstrate compliance with an Approvals Statement?
If issued an Approvals Statement, the tenement holder may be required to submit an environmental report to demonstrate compliance with environmental and closure outcomes and conditions set out in the statement. The environmental report should continue to be lodged through the department’s EARS2 system.
Additional guidance will be released following commence of the new framework to detail the how to present information in the environmental report when an Approvals Statement has been issued. This will include detail on how to present the approved disturbance areas for the mining activities recorded on the Approvals Statement.
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