The lease for the Jabiluka uranium mine in Australia’s Northern Territory will not be renewed, following recent protective measures for the surrounding area. Energy Resources Australia (ERA) had sought a 10-year extension for the mine, which it had operated for 42 years. However, the application was rejected on Friday.
Mining Minister Mark Monaghan stated that the decision was influenced by federal government advice and the wishes of the Mirarr people. “We have gone through a thorough process to ensure that all stakeholder views have been considered in this decision,” Monaghan said. He emphasized that the federal government’s guidance and the Mirarr community’s preferences were crucial factors.
In May, the Northern Territory government designated the Jabiluka area, which is near Kakadu National Park, as a special reserve. This designation prevents any future mineral title applications once the current lease expires on August 11.
The Australian Conservation Foundation hailed the decision, describing it as a significant victory for traditional owners. “This decision allows a line to be drawn under the divisive era of uranium mining in Kakadu,” the Foundation’s statement read. It was characterized as a responsible move that ends the long-standing threat to this unique region.
The Mirarr people have consistently opposed mining in the area, leading protests in the late 1990s and early 2000s, which saw more than 5,000 people converge on Kakadu to block uranium mining at Jabiluka.
Energy Resources of Australia, a Rio Tinto Group subsidiary, has been contacted for comment. 
