Approvals acceleration to fast track WA economy

The WA State Government’s $120 million spend included their $27.4 million election promise to DMIRS to deliver mining approval reform.

Premier Mark McGowan said all five departments were integral to the state’s continued strength.

“Development in the mining, oil and gas, tourism and agricultural industries is vital to sustain economic growth and deliver WA jobs,” McGowan said.

“We are in the fortunate position of having the strongest economy in the nation, but we cannot be complacent as there are billions of dollars’ worth of capital projects in the approvals pipeline.”

The funding will mobilise 150 frontline officers to get their respective departments on the move.

The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia chief executive Paul Everingham emphasised the need for such investment.

“There are around $140 billion in projects in the WA mining and resources sector pipeline. An inefficient approvals process restricts our ability to take full advantage of these, impacting job creation as well as the local and national economy,” Everingham said.

“Now, more than ever, it is critical to maximise the significant pipeline of opportunities to support the local and national economy as it recovers from the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 as well as create new jobs for WA locals.”