Critical minerals inquiry calls for submissions as committee examines community impacts and economic outcomes
A federal parliamentary inquiry examining how critical minerals projects affect communities, industry and regional economies has extended its submission deadline, inviting input from businesses, local groups and experts to inform how these projects develop across Australia.
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Primary Industries has extended the deadline for submissions to its inquiry examining the social licence and economic development outcomes of critical minerals projects across Australia.
The inquiry is looking at how mining developments for minerals used in modern technologies are planned and delivered, including how projects interact with communities and contribute to regional economies.
More than fifty submissions have already been received from stakeholders including mining companies, farmers, local governments, community organisations, Indigenous groups and researchers. The committee is now encouraging additional input from individuals and organisations with experience or interest in critical minerals projects.
Committee Chair Meryl Swanson said the inquiry aims to gather a wide range of views before preparing its report.
“We have heard from miners, farmers, local governments, community organisations, Indigenous organisations and academics—some highlighting the benefits of critical minerals, others raising concerns about the potential impacts of mining on other industries and communities.”
Understanding the balance between opportunity and impact
The inquiry is examining how projects can deliver economic benefits while addressing concerns raised by communities and other industries.
According to Ms Swanson, gaining a clearer understanding of the issues raised by stakeholders will help inform future policy settings and development approaches.
“The Committee is looking to get as comprehensive a picture as possible about how to maximise the benefits of critical minerals to Australia while minimising the impacts. We need to hear from as many interested stakeholders as possible to get the clearest picture of the best way forward,” she said.
Topics the inquiry will examine
The committee’s terms of reference cover a range of areas affecting both project development and community outcomes.
These include how companies and governments engage with local communities and Traditional Owners, and how projects affect regional and national economic development.
The inquiry will also examine opportunities to expand workforce participation, training and employment pathways, particularly in remote areas and Indigenous communities.
In addition, the committee will consider how state, territory and local governments support development of critical minerals projects, and whether coordination between different levels of government could be improved.
Submissions open until 31 March
The closing date for written submissions has been extended to Tuesday, 31 March 2026.
Submissions are invited from a broad range of stakeholders including government agencies, industry bodies, mining companies, academic experts, community groups, Indigenous organisations and individuals.
