The future of a large-scale mining project in South Australia’s Lake Torrens hangs in the balance, with federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek being urged to issue a heritage protection order. This could block a mining venture that aims to rival the giant Olympic Dam operated by BHP.
A report recently submitted to Ms. Plibersek recommends that she use powers under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (ATSIHP) to halt the exploration activities in key areas of Lake Torrens. This follows a two-year investigation prompted by a 2021 application from two members of the Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation, who sought to preserve the cultural heritage of the region.
Orpheus Uranium, a company operating in the area through its subsidiary Kelaray, holds approvals from the South Australian government to explore for valuable copper, uranium, and gold deposits. However, a federal protection order would override these approvals and freeze all future exploration. The company has already invested millions into the project, and such a decision could have major ramifications, not just for Orpheus but for other resource projects in the region.
Mining Prospects at Risk
Lake Torrens is a highly prospective site, with Orpheus Uranium estimating that its Murdie project could uncover resources comparable to those at Olympic Dam, which holds the largest uranium deposit globally. Orpheus Chairman Mick Billing has warned that a heritage order would permanently block access to these resources, with long-term effects on the industry. The company has urged the government to consider the economic benefits that the project could bring to South Australia, including job creation and infrastructure development.
Although the South Australian government supports the mining project, the final decision rests with the federal government, which is weighing the report’s recommendations alongside procedural fairness for all parties involved.
Indigenous Heritage and Legal Challenges
At the heart of the issue is the cultural significance of Lake Torrens to several Indigenous groups, including the Kokatha, Adnyamathanha, Barngarla, and Kuyani peoples. The lake is linked to ancient Dreaming stories and holds spiritual value that, according to the Section 10 application, warrants protection under federal law.
The mining sector, while supportive of protecting Indigenous heritage, has expressed frustration at the delays and uncertainty caused by late-stage interventions. Warren Pearce, CEO of the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies, emphasised that the sector has followed due diligence and legal protocols, and it is now time for clarity from the government to avoid investment risks and job losses.
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