We made this written submission to the Select Committee established to inquire into this legislation that facilitates the massive expansion of the Olympic Dam mine.
The committee initially refused to grant us a hearing, but after some media attention agreed to (albeit with very short notice).
On Monday 31st October we made a presentation, noting various failings of the legislation. In particular we expressed concern that the Indenture makes no reference to any of the environmental approval conditions. The environmental performance is largely left to management plans which are yet to be developed. On the government's side however, it has locked in very tangible commitments, some of which have significant financial implications for our state (for example the capping of royalty rates and NRM levies).
We raised concerns about much of the environmental oversight falling to the Minister for Mineral Resources Development rather than the Environment Protection Authority. We noted the very poor environmental practices, citing as examples the incredibly low commitment to renewable energy (7.6% compared to the 50% commitment for government operations) and radioactive waste being left above-ground where it will pose significant public health and environmental risks for generations.
The Committee's report is to be tabled in Parliament on 8th November.
