The Mineral Resources Act 1989 was assented to on 25th October, 1989 after more than two years of consultation and negotiation between Government, the mining industry and other affected parties particularly the major rural organisations._x000D_
The legislation proposes major conceptual changes in a number of areas and adopts a totally new approach to the definition of land and the mechanisms available to the mining industry for accessing such land._x000D_
Unfortunately the passage of the legislation through Parliament coincided with the lead-up to the State election. Ultimately it became an election issue generating much adverse comment in the media particularly from rural and landholder groups. It was obvious that much of this anti-mining propaganda resulted from a lack of understanding of the legislation and the benefits that flow to the majority of landholders as well as the mining industry._x000D_
It is essential that the contents of the Mineral Resources Act be thoroughly understood by all parties. Only then will all the State's resources be able to be developed in a multiple land use environment._x000D_
This paper outlines the philosophy behind the new Act and the more important provisions contained therein.