The NSW Coalition will introduce legislation to prevent offshore coal, gas, mineral and petroleum mining and exploration in NSW waters, fulfilling an election commitment and renewing calls for the Federal Labor Government to prevent offshore mining in neighbouring Commonwealth waters.
The Minerals Legislation Amendment (Offshore Drilling and Associated Infrastructure Prohibition) Bill 2023 will deliver on the Coalition's policy to prevent offshore mining and exploration in NSW waters.
"The former NSW Coalition Government was consistently opposed to offshore mining due to the grave concerns we hold about the possible impact on the environment," Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said.
Shadow Environment Minister Kellie Sloane has called on the Labor Government to support the legislation saying "the Coalition will always stand up for the environment and our communities, who have said loud and clear that care deeply about our pristine coastline".
"The NSW and Federal Labor Governments must confirm that they support our ban, otherwise the uncertainty of future offshore exploration and mining will continue to hang over our coastal communities," Ms Sloane said.
Member for Pittwater Rory Amon, who will introduce the Bill in the Parliament, said this fulfils a key election promise and makes it abundantly clear that anyone looking to drill for gas in NSW waters won't have the opportunity.
"Pittwater is just one of many coastal electorates who hold deep concerns about the environmental impact of mining and exploration off our shore," Mr Amon said.
"I made clear prior to the election that this would be a priority of mine, and I am pleased that this is one of my first actions as the Member for Pittwater. This is a strong demonstration that the Coalition will continue to stand up for our communities, and the people of NSW, and act when the Labor Government fails to do so."
To help tackle beach erosion, the proposed legislation will continue to allow mineral exploration or mining in NSW waters for beach nourishment where a clear public benefit can be demonstrated.
