South Australia’s Mining Act consultation

Submissions closed on 28 May 2025

A modern, fit-for-purpose regulatory system supports a growing mining industry that respects our communities and environment, while delivering economic opportunities for the benefit of all South Australians.

South Australia's Mining Act 1971 provides the legal framework for the exploration and development of South Australia’s mineral resources.

The Department for Energy and Mining monitors the Act’s effectiveness to ensure the legislation remains fit-for-purpose. Informed by industry and community feedback, regulatory approaches and developments in other jurisdictions, the department has identified further potential enhancements to the regulatory framework.

We asked for your feedback on a range of potential options to update the Mining Act's regulatory framework, with a focus on the following areas:

  • mineral exploration tenure
  • how existing native title rights and interests are reflected in the Mining Act
  • private mine regulation
  • technical and operational amendments.

More information

Next steps

All feedback will be considered. A consultation report will be published on this website, and a recommendation made to the Minister for Energy and Mining on potential reforms.