Mining Communities Welcome Critical Minerals Strategy Consultation

The Australian Mining Cities Alliance (AMCA), a collaboration of local governments from around Australia, commended Prime Minister the Hon Anthony Albanese MP and his Government on the recent announcement of their commitment to establish a new Critical Minerals Strategy.

AMCA Deputy Chair Anne Baker (Mayor of Isaac Regional Council) particularly welcomed the Government’s commitment to consult with Community Stakeholders.

“The Prime Minister’s commitment to consult with Community Stakeholders[1] in the development of the Critical Minerals Strategy is greatly appreciated and AMCA stands ready to assist the Government in this important initiative.”

“The opportunity for Australia to be a supplier of natural resources, technology and manufacturing to satisfy the global needs to meet climate change objectives is patently clear.  Government, industry and the community will need to work together to ensure that our nation secures its place in meeting global needs.”

“That is why it is so heartening that the Prime Minister will consult with communities in doing so.” she said.

Further emphasising the need to get the consultation right, Mayor Baker said;

“However, it will not be sufficient for the Government to simply engage with the capital city masses.  Consultation will need to be constructively and meaningfully inclusive of those who have the greatest stakes, even though they may be fewer in number.”

“Commitment to the Traditional Owners is right and proper.  Such respect for those who have undeniable rights is essential.”

“We implore the Government to also respect the people who live in the communities that will be impacted by this major growth in mining for critical minerals.”

“They will see their cities and towns change.  They will have to accommodate the invasive effects of exploration.  They will have to adapt to impacts on their infrastructure and their services as non-resident populations come and go.”

“And ultimately they will have to sustainably support the mining operations that will change their communities for many decades to come, if not forever.”

“All we ask is that the Government includes us in their consultation.” Mayor Baker concluded.

[1] Support for critical minerals breakthroughs | Prime Minister of Australia (pm.gov.au)