In this edition of our FIRB Reforms Article Series we consider
how the Commonwealth Government's proposed changes to the
foreign investment rules, as set out in the discussion paper
released on 5 June 2020 (Discussion Paper) and the
draft legislative amendments released on 31 July 2020 impacts
Australia's foreign investment framework in respect of the
mining and resources sectors.
What will be of interest to companies operating in these sectors
is the proposal for FIRB to loosen its tight grip on royalties
arrangements and to clarify its position with respect to certain
exploration licences, to address what are seen as inconsistencies
and uncertainties in FIRB's current screening process. In
contrast, we also delve into why the outlook is not as favourable
for proposed investments into critical minerals.
