PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The South Australian government has announced the formation of a new resources information service specifically designed to assist landowners, farmers and community members in their dealings with the resources sector.
From July 1, the Rural Business Support (RBS) landowner information service will begin taking public enquiries and provide, free of charge, easy-to-understand information to any individual or business who may be affected by activities conducted by the state’s mineral exploration and mining sectors.
Minister for Energy and Mining Dan van Holst Pellekaan said the core function of the landowner information service is to offer landowners the right information empowering them to make informed decisions when liaising with the resources industry.
“The government recognises the importance of both the agricultural and resources sectors to South Australia’s economy and the need for respectful working relations between them,” said Van Holst Pellekaan.
“I encourage landowners who have concerns about the potential impact of resource companies on their property to make use of this excellent service that is being provided free of charge.
“This innovative project will also present resources companies with an independent and credible central point of contact to refer landowners who require information and support about the mining and exploration process.”
The Minister said that this service was not designed to provide legal, commercial, or financial advice, but rather offers a helping hand to landowners to point them in the right direction and help them navigate the often complex technical and legal processes involved with mining and mineral exploration on their land.
“RBS is renowned and respected across South Australia for providing free, independent and confidential services to primary producers and small business owners in rural areas, making them well-placed to deliver this service.
“This service begins at an important time in South Australia’s post-Covid recovery phase, and will further support landowners, primary producers and the mining and mineral exploration sectors to coexist and engage respectfully,” he said.