26 October 2026

The Department for Energy and Mining has released an updated Mineral Regulatory Guideline MG39: Groundwater impact assessment for Scoping, Mining Applications and Programs.

Developed in collaboration with groundwater experts from the Department for Environment and Water, the updated guideline provides clearer guidance for proponents preparing groundwater impact assessments as part of the mining approvals process.

The updated guidance is designed to support more complete and consistent assessments, helping to reduce requests for further information and avoid unnecessary rework during the assessment process.

The guideline was strengthened through feedback received during consultation with industry and key stakeholders, including AMEC (Association of Mining and Exploration Companies), SACOME and Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia.

The Department thanks all stakeholders who contributed feedback on the draft guideline and helped inform the final document.

More information

  • This guideline has been developed to assist industry in preparing fit for purpose applications that result in a more streamlined and cost-effective assessment process.
  • A groundwater impact assessment evaluates how a project, in this case a mine, is predicted to affect the environment.
  • The scoping process is recommended as a means of establishing formal communication between regulators and proponents to ensure the scope of studies and any modelling, if required, is understood and agreed. More information can be found on the scoping web page