Critical minerals inquiry - have your say

THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on Primary Industries is conducting an inquiry into factors shaping social licence and economic development outcomes for critical minerals projects across Australia and is seeking written submissions to guide the inquiry’s findings.

The inquiry has already received more than 50 submissions from a range of stakeholders, but the committee is keen to hear from more individuals and organisations, especially those operating directly in the critical minerals field and communities with an interest in or who are impacted by critical mineral developments.

Committee Chair, Meryl Swanson, said. "We have heard from miners, farmers, local governments, community organisations, Indigenous organisations and academics—some highlighting the benefits of critical minerals, others raising concerns about the potential impacts of mining on other industries and communities.

‘The committee is looking to get as comprehensive a picture as possible about how to maximise the benefits of critical minerals to Australia while minimising the impacts. We need to hear from as many interested stakeholders as possible to get the clearest picture of the best way forward," Ms Swanson said.

The committee has extended the closing date for written submissions responding to the terms of reference to Tuesday, March 31 2026. Submissions are encouraged from a wide range of stakeholders, including government, peak bodies and mining companies, local communities, Indigenous bodies and academic experts.

More information on the inquiry, including the full terms of reference and details on making a submission, can be found on the inquiry website.

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