The Tasmanian Government will modernise and digitise Mineral Resources Tasmania, making it easier for proponents to invest in the State's resources.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced the investment at the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council Conference today.
"As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, our Government will ensure Mineral Resources Tasmania has the capability, expertise and resources it needs to support a growing industry and keep approvals moving," Premier Rockliff said.
"Too much of the approvals process still relies on outdated, paper-based systems that create inefficiencies for both industry and government.
"We will modernise and digitise Mineral Resources Tasmania, making it easier for proponents to engage with government.
"By investing in better technology, better information management and more streamlined processes, we can reduce bottlenecks, improve transparency and help deliver faster decisions for industry.
"By streamlining application processes we will enable our most qualified personnel to get out from behind a desk."
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis, said Tasmania's resources sector helps keep the State's economy strong, directly employing 6,000 people and accounting for almost two-thirds of our export value.
"This year, mining royalties are expected to deliver a record return of around $93 million to the State, helping fund the schools, hospitals, roads and essential services Tasmanians rely on every day," Minister Ellis said.
"Exploration expenditure reached record levels last year, and the outlook for Tasmania's resources sector remains incredibly strong, with more than $1.5 billion in current and potential investment opportunities across the state.
"When businesses are making investment decisions, they need certainty. They need a regulator that is responsive, and they need confidence that applications will be assessed efficiently and within reasonable timeframes."
