Uranium is the world's heaviest, naturally occurring element and is found in soil, rocks, human tissue, food, water and the ocean. In its natural state, uranium is only weakly radioactive and needs to be enriched before it can be used as a nuclear fuel. Enriched uranium is used primarily as fuel for nuclear power stations. Uranium is also used in the creation of radioactive isotopes for use in various medical applications, including radiation therapy for certain types of cancer.
Government policy on uranium mining
The State Government does not support uranium mining in Western Australia and since 2017, has implemented a ‘no uranium’ condition on future mining leases.
It is the Western Australian Government’s policy that no new uranium mining proposals will be approved.
The Government will honour, however, the four uranium projects already granted State Ministerial approval. The projects are Toro Energy’s Wiluna Project, Cameco Australia’s Kintyre Uranium Project, Cameco Australia’s Yeelirrie Uranium Project, and Deep Yellow’s Mulga Rock Project.
Of these projects, only the Mulga Rock Project has demonstrated ‘substantial commencement’ within the approval timeline, while the remaining projects have not progressed.
Uranium exploration
While new uranium mining proposals will not be approved, it is not possible to ban the discovery of uranium through exploration, as uranium may be found unintentionally when exploring for other minerals.
The regulatory system for exploration therefore permits all minerals exploration, including uranium.
Regulation of uranium
Western Australia has a comprehensive and robust legislative framework that regulates mining in a manner that provides protection of workers, the community and the environment.
The regulation of radioactive materials such as uranium, is administered by WorkSafe located within the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, the Radiological Council (WA), and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.
Further reading on uranium
Show moreUranium resources and reserves
Australia's Energy Commodity Resources - Uranium and Thorium
Western Australian Government agencies
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
Australian Government agencies
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency
International agencies
