WA Government to Propose Five-Year Griffin Coal Extension Bill
Rehabilitation Clause Draws Scrutiny
The Western Australian state government intends to propose a five-year mining extension for Griffin Coal in parliament this week. The proposed legislation includes a specific clause pertaining to rehabilitation and decommissioning responsibilities.
The Conservation Council of WA (CCWA) has commented on the bill. The CCWA states it contains a provision allowing the state to release the company, either partially or fully, from its decommissioning and rehabilitation obligations and liabilities.
This release would apply under the State Agreement, the Environmental Protection Act (EP Act), or other relevant laws, even if those laws specify otherwise.
The Conservation Council of WA highlights a provision that could allow the state to release Griffin Coal, partially or fully, from its rehabilitation obligations, overriding existing laws.