A newly revealed analysis has disclosed that cultural heritage regulations are costing each mining company in Western Australia approximately $1 million annually, while the Cook government continues to keep its own review of the system confidential, sparking significant industry backlash.
Industry Impact of Heritage Rules
The cost burden, detailed in documents obtained by The West Australian, shows that the financial impact of complying with Aboriginal cultural heritage laws is far higher than previously estimated. Industry sources indicate that the $1 million figure per company covers expenses related to heritage surveys, consultation with traditional owners, legal fees, and administrative compliance.
This revelation comes as the state government faces mounting pressure to release its internal review of the Aboriginal Heritage Act, which has been completed but remains under wraps. The review was commissioned after widespread criticism of the current system, which miners argue is overly complex and costly.
Government Review Under Fire
The Cook government has defended keeping the review confidential, stating that it is still being considered and that any release would be premature. However, opposition parties and industry groups have condemned the secrecy, calling for immediate transparency.
Shadow Minister for Mines, Bill Johnston, said: "The government cannot continue to hide behind closed doors while miners are being hit with massive costs. This review must be released so that we can see if there are any solutions to reduce the burden."
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA has also weighed in, noting that the high costs are affecting investment decisions. "Exploration and mining projects are being delayed or cancelled because of the uncertainty and expense of heritage approvals," a spokesperson said.
Cultural Heritage Protection vs. Economic Growth
Balancing the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage with the needs of the resources sector remains a contentious issue in Western Australia. The state is home to some of the world's most significant mining operations, and the industry contributes billions to the economy.
Traditional owners, however, argue that heritage laws are essential to protect sacred sites from destruction. The destruction of the Juukan Gorge caves in 2020 by Rio Tinto highlighted the failures of the previous system and led to calls for stronger protections.
The current Aboriginal Heritage Act was amended in 2021, but industry groups say the new regulations have created additional red tape without improving outcomes for traditional owners.
Call for Reform
The $1 million cost figure has intensified calls for reform. Miners are urging the government to streamline the approval process, provide clearer guidelines, and reduce duplication between state and federal requirements.
A spokesperson for the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety said: "The government is committed to ensuring that cultural heritage is protected while supporting a strong resources sector. The review will inform future policy decisions."
Despite these assurances, industry leaders remain skeptical. "We need action, not more studies," said one senior mining executive. "The cost of compliance is unsustainable, and if the government doesn't act, we will see projects move to other jurisdictions."
The Cook government has not indicated when the review will be made public, but pressure is expected to mount as the state heads into the next election cycle.
