FROM THE CMPA SECRETARIAT (Issue 57)
Working Towards A Better Future
CMPA Honorary CEO, RON KERR considers the impact of the MRSDA Review on our industry.
THE aim of the CMPA has always been to ensure that market entry is not restricted and that regulatory burdens are not placed upon the industry that ensure only those with unlimited liability have a possibility of participating.
The CMPA Members are very concerned at present at the future of our industry. We are seeing that the costs to comply with current regulations and the enormous costs involved in applications and variations are having major impacts on our industry.
Th ere is clear evidence that the industry is not taking up the challenge alone and this is reflected in the shortage of new Work Authorities over the last ten years, and resultant supply shortages throughout the state of Victoria.
The CMPA’s An Unsustainable Future report of August 2009 highlighted nine industry participants each of whom has, and in some cases three years on are still, participating in the Work Authority process. A range of matters bearing directly on the competitiveness of the industry in Victoria were revealed and in the most part remain unresolved.
However, the CMPA’s experience with the amalgamation of the Extractives Industry Development Act (EIDA) into the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act (MRSDA) showed the government had no respect for the impact the amalgamation would have upon the extractive industry and was only interested in its own cost reductions.
The extractive industry picked up a higher risk profile in being associated with mining, and also picked up additional regulatory obligations (particularly in terms of community engagement and the release of rehabilitation bonds).
Any further amalgamation must take into account that approximately 90% of Extractive Industry Work Authorities managed by the Department of Primary Industries are small to medium sized businesses and there is no evidence of risks to justify further increased regulatory burdens.
If we ended up with regulations that are easier to understand and apply and actually result in saving to the industry and consequently the consumer, then there would be some sense in all the papers and all workshops and meetings that have been happening in this MRSDA review process.
ANNUAL DINNER 2011 AT THE MOAMA BOWLING CLUB
The CMPA 2011 Annual Dinner at the newly refurbished Moama Bowling Club is now only weeks away. With the Secretariat now applying the finishing touches to what will be an enjoyable weekend for all Members and their guests.
It will be a great night to catch up with old friends, network with fellow Members and meet new people with the same interests. You will be wined, dined and entertained with beautiful music. Get your caricature drawn or win a prize at the silent auction.
Don’t forget the extra activities planned for Members across the weekend as well; including paintball, golf and a paddle steamer cruise on the Murray. Don’t miss out on a fun filled weekend!
RSVP closes on Friday 12th Aug. 2011
Date: Saturday 27th Aug. 2011
Location: Moama Bowling Club
Time: 5.30pm Pre-dinner drinks 6.30pm Dinner
Cost: CMPA Members $95
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