Rare Earth Mining

The Hon. B.R. HOOD (14:59): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking a question of the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development regarding rare earth minerals.

Leave granted.

The Hon. B.R. HOOD: Last sitting week in this place I asked a question of the Minister for Primary Industries on mining exploration in the state's southern region of Koppamurra and in particular I raised concerns relating to the farming and forestry plantation communities in that region. The minister's response was that she had spoken to Minister Koutsantonis and she had been reassured that 'the minister said there were robust frameworks in place regarding mining approvals'. The minister at that time and also yesterday failed to answer my question also as to whether she had met with the Limestone Coast Sustainable Futures Association. My questions to the Minister for Primary Industries are:

1. Can the minister explain the precise nature of robust frameworks that will be specifically protecting forest plantations and farming properties from mining?

2. What mechanisms exist within the framework to allow local communities to voice objections in mining approvals that affect their livelihoods?

3. And I ask again: has the minister or her office made attempts to meet with the Limestone Coast Sustainable Futures Association?

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! The Hon. Mr Hunter!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (15:00): I do find it quite surprising that the honourable member referred to not answering a question given his habit in this place, but that is, I guess, for the honourable member to determine. He may like to think, though, about his wording of the questions, given the current circumstances in which he finds himself. However, as I mentioned, there is a robust framework—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: —which is set out in terms of legislation and processes.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! I cannot hear the minister.

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: I am happy to refer to the minister in the other place in terms of where they appear, although I would speculate that most of them would be available on the website for his department, but I am happy to check that and bring back a response.

An honourable member interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: I am going to struggle to rule it in or out because I couldn't really hear the answer.