Western Australian Government's Approval
The Government of Western Australia has recently approved AWAC’s continuation of bauxite mining and downstream alumina refining operations in the region. This includes sanctioning AWAC's latest five-year mine plan (2023-2027 Mining and Management Plan) for the Huntly and Willowdale bauxite mines.
Environmental Considerations and Waivers
Additionally, the Western Australian Government has granted a waiver allowing AWAC to continue mining operations, even if the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) conducts an independent environmental impact assessment of the Mining and Management Plan. AWAC is required to adhere to several environmentally relevant conditions, including the protection of drinking water, biodiversity, and accelerated forest restoration.