Horsham Rural City Council has submitted its response to a Federal Government inquiry examining how critical minerals projects affect communities and regional economic development across Australia.
Developed in close collaboration with Yarriambiack Shire Council, the submission outlines a clear position: while Council understands the importance of critical minerals to the nation and the opportunities they may afford the regions, projects must be responsibly planned, transparent, and deliver genuine benefits to local communities.
Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the submission reflects strong community sentiment across the region.
"We are not opposed to development, but it must be balanced, transparent, and locally beneficial," said Cr Klowss.
"Projects that undermine agriculture, place additional strain on housing and infrastructure, or exclude communities from decision-making simply will not earn community trust."
The submission highlights growing concern that social licence cannot be assumed, particularly in regional areas already facing economic and infrastructure pressures.
"Social licence isn't automatic - it must be earned through genuine engagement, fair sharing of benefits, and careful management of cumulative impacts across the region," said Cr Klowss.
"Right now, community trust is low. Many residents feel poorly informed and inadequately consulted on major mining proposals, and that needs to change."
Council's submission highlights the need to protect the region's strong agricultural base and its vital role in food production.
"Our prime agricultural land is one of our greatest assets. It cannot be compromised for short-term mining activity without careful consideration of long-term consequences," said Cr Klowss.
The submission also raises ongoing concerns about the combined impact of multiple projects, noting that current approval processes don't properly consider the overall pressure on communities, infrastructure, and essential services.
"We are seeing proposals considered in isolation, when in reality their impacts are anything but. Communities experience these projects collectively, and that must be reflected in planning and approvals," said Cr Klowss.
Workforce and housing shortages are also identified as critical risks.
"Large projects have the potential to make existing worker and housing shortages worse, which may put pressure on important local industries like agriculture," said Cr Klowss.
Infrastructure capacity, particularly local roads and transport networks, is another key issue.
"Our infrastructure is not equipped to handle increased heavy vehicle use without significant investment. This is an issue that requires coordinated government support," said Cr Klowss.
Council is calling for stronger regulation, clearer engagement requirements, and guaranteed local benefits to ensure communities are not left behind.
"Critical minerals development presents economic opportunities, but success depends on doing it properly - engaging communities, managing impacts, and ensuring benefits are genuinely shared."
