Development of new potash projects announced

The Western Australian Government has committed to assisting the development of the potash and minerals in brine industry in the state to help develop industry and create jobs for local communities.

Due to the unique nature of potash projects, the Western Australian Government will introduce a new rental rate for potash projects that are granted a new class of mining lease for restricted minerals.

The existing rental rate of $18.70 per hectare was found to be inappropriate for industrial minerals in brine because these operations require larger mining leases than other forms of mining.

Once approved, minerals in brine mining leases will benefit from a reduced rental rate set at:

$2.32 per hectare for the first five years of the lease; and
$4.64 per hectare from year six onwards

Minister for Mines and Petroleum , Bill Johnston, said, “These changes will assist the development of a new industry in Western Australia, and create employment and community development opportunities, particularly in remote Aboriginal communities.

“Potash is vital for agriculture because it is an essential nutrient in fertilisers that protects food crops from disease and pests, and improves water retention, yield, taste and appearance.

“The new industrial minerals in brine mining tenure for potash projects will help stimulate this very important mineral sector and create jobs for Western Australians.

“Potash projects generally have a mine life that spans 30 to 40 years, so this longevity is a win for local communities and sustaining jobs.”

The new potash rental rates are expected to come into effect in 2019.