Proposed expansion of Olympic Dam declared a major development
27 February 2019
The Marshall Liberal Government has
declared
BHP’s proposed 75 per cent increase in annual copper production
at
Olympic Dam a major development proposal to ensure the highest level
of environmental, economic and social assessment possible.
The $3 billion proposal would increase Olympic Dam’s annual copper
production from 200,000 tonnes to up to 350,000 tonnes and increase the
level of gold, silver and uranium production.
“Declaring BHP’s proposed expansion of Olympic Dam a major development
is a key milestone in this important project,” said Minister for Energy
and Mining Dan van Holst Pellekaan.
“Olympic Dam is already the State’s largest
mining operation, providing
jobs, investment and royalties for
South Australia.
“BHP’s proposal could potentially create up to 1,800 construction
jobs
with an additional 600 ongoing positions in operational roles.
BHP proposes to increase the use of water from the Great Artesian Basin
to up to 50 megalitres a day.
“It needs to be stressed that there will be a thorough
environmental
assessment of BHP’s proposed development, including its request for an
increased take from the Great Artesian Basin.
“This proposal will be subject to a rigorous scientific assessment to
ensure maximum draw down limits are scientifically determined and
sustainable, and that other waters users are not adversely impacted.
“There will also be extensive public consultation on the proposed
expansion to make sure that communities have their say and there is
transparency of the assessment of the project.”
The Ministerial declarations cover BHP’s proposals both within and
outside the mining lease, such as proposed industrial, accommodation and
airport developments in Roxby Downs.
Minister for Planning Stephan Knoll said the assessment of the proposed
development will be based on an evaluation of potential environmental,
social and economic impacts and how these may be managed.
“The major development process provides a detailed framework for
assessment informed by the community, State Government and the Federal
Government,” Mr Knoll said.
The State Government understands that BHP will refer the proposal to the
Commonwealth Government to ensure that it is considered under the
framework of the Commonwealth’s Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act.
--ENDS--
Source: South Australian Government - www.premier.sa.gov.au
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