To bring clarity to the State Government’s controversial mining bill, Independent MP and Member for Frome Geoff Brock moved a notice of motion in Parliament today, July 3, 2019.

The notice of motion, seconded by Independent Member Troy Bell, asks for leave to introduce a Bill for an Act to provide for a Commission of Inquiry into land access regimes under the Mining Act 1971 and the Opal Mining Act 1995, the operation of the Department of Energy and Mining, in relation to such land access regimes, and for other purposes.

“I have submitted this notice today in the hope that Parliament will find some clarity, going forward, in regard to the Mining Bill, which is causing division and concern,” Mr Brock said.

“There is support for this motion from peak industry bodies, including the Grain Producers SA and the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy who jointly called for an independent review into the State’s mining legislation earlier this year.

“It was agreed at the time that a review should, among other things, thoroughly examine best practice land access frameworks in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia, and I believe this is also a critical way forward for South Australia,” Mr Brock said.

“I believe it is essential we protect our farmers and their industry and listen to their concerns about the lack of protection of South Australian arable land, which is reducing every year.”

Under the Mining Bill, exploration would be allowed closer to homesteads – within 200m rather than the current 400m and landowners faced fines for obstructing access.
Mr Brock said he was giving Parliament notice that he as introducing the Bill for an Inquiry into land access regimes at the end of this month.