The Western Australian government, led by Premier Roger Cook, has reaffirmed that it has no plans to lift the state’s ban on new uranium mining, despite rising global demand for uranium and a recent Australia–India agreement that opens the door for uranium exports to India.
Key points include:
- No policy change: The Cook Labor government said its longstanding policy remains in place. Uranium mining has been banned for new projects in Western Australia since Labor came to power in 2017, although projects approved before the ban were allowed to continue.
- Only one eligible project: Deep Yellow’s Mulga Rock project is the only uranium development that still qualifies under the existing policy, though it has yet to begin production.
- Growing industry pressure: Mining companies argue that increasing global demand for nuclear fuel, driven by energy security and decarbonization goals, creates a major economic opportunity for Western Australia. Industry leaders say lifting the ban could attract investment, create regional jobs, and boost export revenue.
- India trade agreement: The recent uranium export arrangement with India has intensified calls from industry and some political figures to reconsider the ban. India’s High Commissioner to Australia said additional uranium supply from WA would be welcomed, although he acknowledged the decision rests with the WA government.
- Environmental opposition: Conservation groups continue to support the ban, arguing uranium mining carries environmental, radioactive waste, and rehabilitation risks, and that investment should instead focus on renewable energy.
- Political divide: While the Cook government remains committed to the ban, the WA Liberal–National opposition has pledged to remove it if elected, arguing that the policy is limiting the state’s ability to benefit from its substantial uranium resources.
Overall, despite stronger international demand for uranium and new export opportunities, the Cook government is prioritizing its renewable energy agenda and has signaled that no new uranium mining projects will be approved under current policy.
