The Western Australian government has opened a 12-week public consultation on proposed legislative reforms designed to strengthen the state’s Mining Rehabilitation Fund (MRF).
The discussion paper outlines eight proposed amendments across five key areas of the Mining Rehabilitation Fund Act 2012.
The changes stem from an independent 10-year statutory review concluded in 2024, which found the legislation was operating effectively without needing wholesale reform, but put forward 16 recommendations to improve its administration.
Funded by industry contributions, the MRF finances the cleanup and rehabilitation of abandoned mine sites across the state, backing major programs such as remediation at the former Ellendale Diamond Mine and the Safer Shafts for Towns initiative.
Key proposals on the table include introducing greater flexibility to fund rehabilitation works during extraordinary events and refining how mining rehabilitation levies are reassessed. The reforms also aim to clarify the administration of abandoned mine rehabilitation, streamline formal notices for joint mining authorisation holders, and mandate a future statutory review.
Mines, Petroleum and Exploration Minister Daniel Pastorelli said responsible mine closure is critical to maintaining a sustainable resources sector.
“Effective mine closure requires government, industry and communities to work together, and this consultation gives people a direct say in shaping the way forward,” Pastorelli said.
“The Mining Rehabilitation Fund helps ensure industry contributes to addressing the legacy of mining and protecting WA’s environment. This is a great opportunity for interested parties to take part in the discussions.”
Submissions for the current consultation will close on 4 February 2027, with public and industry feedback informing final legislative amendments for government consideration.
A separate discussion paper detailing proposed changes to the Mining Rehabilitation Fund Regulations 2013 is scheduled for release in early 2027.
