NEW South Wales Farmers has welcomed a review of the state’s opal mining framework, with the organisation saying better regulations are needed to ensure a “fairer playing field” between farmers and miners.

Today, the NSW Government released a response to an independent review of small-scale titles, mainly for opal mining. The Government says it will support 71 of the report’s 84 recommendations.

A statement from NSW Farmers said reforms were needed to ensure the agricultural and opal industries could coexist.

“It’s clear we need a better regulatory framework to ensure a fairer playing field between farmers and miners, and to ensure that the opal industry is operating safely – and it’s good to see the government commit to enacting reforms in this space,” the statement said.

“Landholders have been especially concerned about persistent challenges with opal mining permit holders in regard to land access, biosecurity, appropriate compensation, rehabilitation and regulator compliance and enforcement.

“Continuing the moratorium on opal mining in Opal Prospecting Area 4 (OPA4) is a major relief for affected landholders and will provide greater certainty while minimising conflict and damage to the environment.”

Biosecurity recommendation not supported

One of the recommendations not supported by the Government was one to make miners comply with reasonable requirements on landholders’ biosecurity management plans.

The Government said there are laws to make sure miners uphold a biosecurity duty and that it was currently doing an education program.

NSW Farmers said was disappointing to see the Government not support the recommendation.

“Agriculture depends on strong biosecurity systems, so it is highly concerning to see these recommendations to improve biosecurity protocols and prevent the spread of pests and weeds have not been supported.

“NSW Farmers will continue to advocate for its members to ensure the right regulations are in place to protect their farms, and their families, into the future. Genuine consultation with landholders on the proposed next steps will be key to enacting these reforms, and getting this right.”