The Pilbara is one of our state's most productive mining areas. We work closely with mining companies both in approvals and ongoing operations to ensure good water management across the region.
Much has been achieved in setting effective water management practices throughout the Pilbara with many years of good engagement, regulation and planning.
With the recent mining boom, the number and scale of mining ventures in the Pilbara has increased rapidly. Our focus is on addressing the new challenges in water management, which include:
- not enough water at ports and towns
- too much water at mines, from dewatering
- catchment-scale cumulative impacts of changes to water regimes.
The Pilbara water in mining guideline
We developed the Pilbara water in mining guideline to clearly set out how to meet our regulatory requirements for mining projects - both in approvals and ongoing operations. By improving the information available on our regulatory processes, we will consolidate good practices in mine water management throughout the Pilbara mining industry.
The guideline covers a five stage process that matches the mining life cycle. It includes process information on what is needed for scoping and approvals, submitting the necessary information for licence assessment and developing an operating strategy for the life of the mine.
Why has the department prepared a water in mining guideline for the Pilbara?
Mining projects have a significant effect on groundwater and surface water resources, especially where mining is below the water table. We recognise the need to provide consistent, best practice advice that supports our regulatory approvals process. Mine developers and operators need clear guidance from the water regulator in dealing with the complexities of water management, particularly when mining below the watertable.
How can I access information on the Pilbara that the department has produced?
We are committed to making our technical information available to the public. The guideline is available here. Additional reports are available for download under the relevant links section on the right.
Further information
For licensing information, please contact the Department of Water's Pilbara Regional office in Karratha. Phone 08 9144 2000, or visit the Water regions website.
For further information about the guideline contact the Department of Water's Water Allocation Planning branch. Phone 08 6364 7600 or email allocation.planning@water.wa.gov.au.