Opal industry shakeup after independent review

Over 200 Lightning Ridge Miners attending a public information session on the Indepenent Review back in February 2024. Photo TWH

The Independent Review into the Statutory Framework for Small-Scale Titles for Opal Mining has issued its final report with 81 recommendations to enhance and support the opal mining industry’s sustainability and efficacy.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos commissioned the Independent Review following a departmental review found that 3,343 mineral claims in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs had been issued by invalid decisions.

The review was undertaken by former Land and Environment Court Judge and NSW Attorney General, Terry Sheahan, with the support of law firm Norton Rose Fulbright Australia.

The Independent Review analysed the statutory framework of small-scale opals titles, issues such as land access and landholder compensation, and listened to stakeholder views to form its recommendations.[…]

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