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❓ Question on Notice regarding South 32's bauxite mining operations near Boddington and their impact on groundwater levels, salinity, surrounding farmland, and protected forest areas. The question seeks information on investigations, mitigation measures, compensation, and community engagement.

AnsweredQoN 2061Legislative Assembly

Asked

14 April 2026

Member

Mr Lachlan Hunter

Portfolio

Water

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to South 32's bauxite mining operations near Boddington and report of changes to groundwater levels and salinity which are adversely impacting surrounding farmland and protected forest areas and I ask:(a) is the Minister aware of these reports and concerns raised by local landholders and stakeholders;(b) what investigations/testing is currently underway into groundwater and salinity levels in the areas surrounding the mine or in the general Boddington area;(c) will these investigations/tests include reviewing long term historical records and independents monitoring of water and salinity levels in the affected area;(d) if investigations/testing is currently underway, what results or findings have been identified to date;(e) will the Government commit to independent monitoring and verification of water levels and salinity, separate from any proponent-led assessments;(f) what specific measures will be taken to mitigate or reverse any identified impacts on agricultural land and protected forest areas;(g) has the Government considered compensation or remediation frameworks for affected landholders, and if so, what do these include;(h) what engagement has occurred with local communities, landholders and environmental groups regarding these concerns; and(i) will the Minister table any reports, data or findings arising from these investigations?