This annual Department for Energy and Mining Minerals Regulation Report provides an overview of regulatory activities under the Mining Act 1971 and Mining Regulations 2020 for the reporting period 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023.
Over this period there was an increase in the number of exploration applications, a strong sign of improved sentiment and investment in the South Australian mineral resources sector. This sentiment was reflected in the sustained growth in exploration expenditure, with the 2022–23 financial year total reported expenditure at $228.2 million, up 86% from $122.3 million the previous financial year, and the highest since 2012–13.
Reported mineral production royalties for 2022–23 was $287 million, up from last year’s $240 million.
In 2022–23 the department
- Completed 114 mining and exploration program assessments
- Completed 410 exploration and mining inspections
- Attended 10 community meetings
- Issued 12 environment and compliance directions and orders
- Issued 84 formal letters
- Completed 9 investigations of potential unauthorised activity
As custodians of the state’s mineral resources, the department is committed to regulating efficiently, effectively and proactively, with a strong focus on protecting the environment and communities, in line with our policies on regulation and compliance.
