The South Australian government is undertaking consultation on a draft Statutes Amendment (Energy and Mining Reforms) Bill 2025 (draft Bill) as it seeks to ensure our laws responsibly unlock the value and opportunities offered by the state’s resources for the benefit of all South Australians.

The Department for Energy and Mining (the department) regulates South Australian resources through the Energy Resources Act 2000, the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 and the Mining Act 1971.

We are committed to efficient and effective regulation that meets contemporary leading practice and community expectations, supported by strong compliance and environmental management, and meaningful engagement with landowners and users.

We also remain committed to continuous improvement and opportunities to further enhance the legislative framework. A modern, fit-for-purpose regulatory system supports growing industries that respect our communities and environment, while delivering economic opportunities for the benefit of all South Australians.

Further to consultation recently undertaken on the Mining Act 1971 Issues Paper (PDF, 214.2 KB) concerning opportunities for improving the regulatory framework for mining, a draft Bill has now been prepared on a discrete range of legislative reforms to the Mining Act. Consequential amendments are also proposed to the Energy Resources Act and the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act.

A broader suite of reforms in respect to the Mining Act may be considered for a legislative program in the new term of government following the March 2026 State election.

We want your views on the draft Bill and have provided an accompanying Explanation of Clauses to assist in understanding the proposed reforms to these three legislative frameworks.

Statutes Amendment documents

How can I give my feedback?

Email your submissions to dem.consultation@sa.gov.au using the subject line 'Energy and Mining Reforms Bill' by 12 noon Monday 29 September 2025.

What are the next steps?

Feedback provided will inform the consideration of the final form of the Bill for introduction to Parliament.

Contact

Ben Zammit
Executive Director, Regulation and Compliance
Benjamin.Zammit@sa.gov.au