Consultation Requirements

Consultation by the Proponent

A proponent must consult with all relevant stakeholders during the project planning state. The extent of consultation undertaken during this phase is a critical factor considered by the Energy Resources Division in determining the environmental impact classification.

DMITRE encourages the use of the Ministerial Council on Mineral and Petroleum Resources (MCMPF) endorsed document, Principles for Engagement with Communities and Stakeholders (.PDF) 483KB. This document sets out the key principles for effective liaison between the resource sector, the community and various stakeholders.

Consultation by the Energy Resources Division

The level of consultation undertaken by the Energy Resources Division during the assessment and approval process for a proposed activity is determined by the environmental impact classification as follows:

Low impact classification

The Energy Resources Division undertakes consultation internally with Government Agencies (including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department for Water, the Environment Protection Authority and, if relevant, the Department of Planning and Local Government and SafeWork SA). Government consultation protocols and time frames are determined through Administrative Arrangements between the Energy Resources Division (formerly PIRSA Petroleum and Geothermal Group) and the specific agency.

Medium impact classification

The Energy Resources Division seeks community comment through a public consultation period, which is required to run for at least 30 business days.

High impact classification

If a project is assessed as having a high environmental impact, the proposal is referred to the Minister responsible for the Development Act 1993 for an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) under Part 8 of that Development Act.