Changes to control regime for mining permits

The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill has gone through its first reading and is now with the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee, although submissions have not yet been called.

The Bill began life under the previous National-led government and has support on both sides of the House.

Changes affecting tier one permit operators

Currently, a change in control can be notified to Energy & Resources Minister Megan Woods after the fact, and she has a three month window in which to revoke the permit if not satisfied that the financial capability standards are still being met.

The Bill:

• requires Ministerial consent prior to the change taking effect. Failure to obtain this risks revocation, and