The federal and Western Australian governments have committed to a new bilateral agreement for faster, more streamlined environmental approvals for the state’s projects.
Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt and WA Premier Roger Cook signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a clear pathway toward a new bilateral assessment and approval process, effectively creating a one-stop shop for major project vetting.
The reform aims to dismantle the current system where proponents of mining, housing, and energy projects are often forced to clear separate state and federal hurdles. These overlapping assessments have long been a point of contention for industry leaders, cited as a primary cause for project delays and investor uncertainty.
The new framework is made possible by the federal government’s environmental law reforms passed in December 2025.
Under the MoU, Western Australia will lead a single assessment process, backed by the assurance of the newly formed National Environmental Protection Agency.
“The signing of the MoU today represents a significant step toward faster decision making, while protecting WA’s incredible natural environment and heritage,” Watt said.
“The development of a bilateral agreement with WA presents a significant opportunity to supercharge economic growth and progress key projects for the state and the nation, including housing, energy and critical minerals.”
Premier Roger Cook emphasised that the streamlined system is vital for maintaining WA’s status as the nation’s economic engine room.
“Our state requires an assessment system that protects and restores our environment while continuing to deliver our economic priorities,” the Premier said.
“This milestone builds on that work, with a new bilateral agreement to support a single, streamlined assessment process that works for WA.”
The bilateral agreement will be developed to meet the requirements set out in the reforms to the national environment law, which will be in full effect by December 1.
It is expected that a bilateral assessment agreement will be finalised by the end of the year, with negotiations to begin on the approvals agreement after.
