The Northern Territory (NT) Government of Australia has denied the renewal of a mining lease for the Jabiluka uranium deposit, managed by Energy Resources of Australia (ERA), a subsidiary of Rio Tinto. This decision marks a significant development in the long-standing debate over uranium mining in the region.
ERA had sought to extend its 42-year lease on the Jabiluka Uranium mine for an additional ten years. The current lease is set to expire in August 2024. The renewal was intended to maintain the existing agreement with the Mirarr Traditional Owners, who hold the right to veto any development on the Jabiluka deposit.
However, the NT Government, guided by federal advice, decided against renewing the lease. The decision is grounded in the stringent regulatory requirements associated with uranium, which is classified as a prescribed substance. NT Mining Minister Mark Monaghan emphasized that the process was thorough and considered all stakeholder views, including the Mirarr people’s stance and federal government advice.
ERA has expressed disappointment with the decision and is currently exploring its options. The NT Government had previously announced in May that it would designate the Jabiluka area as Reserved Land. This designation, which takes effect upon the lease’s expiration on August 11, 2024, will prohibit any new mineral title applications in the area.
The Reserved Land status aims to prevent future mineral exploration and development in the region, further solidifying the NT Government’s stance on the Jabiluka uranium deposit.
