Final report of Select Committee on Land Access tabled

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Land Access has today tabled its final report in the House of Assembly.

Member for Narungga Fraser Ellis MP was an appointed member of the Committee, which was established in March, and says he is pleased with the final report and its recommendations.

“Land access has been a highly-charged issue in our community for some time and something I have stood up for in the Parliament on a number of occasions.

“That action in Parliament resulted in the formation of a Select Committee which was tasked with enquiring into the important issue of land access disputes,” Mr Ellis said.

“The Committee’s final report, released today, contains six recommendations which I am hopeful, if implemented, will have positive impacts in ensuring the interests of farmers and mining companies are better balanced in land access disputes.

“As a result of the evidence heard, the Select Committee has also resolved to request that the Ombudsman investigate the manner in which the Department for Energy and Mining addresses complaints of breaches of the Mining Act 1971.

“This will ensure that any possible breaches, which are beyond the Committee’s scope, can be appropriately investigated to ensure the best outcomes for landowners.

“If re-elected I will be taking steps to ensure that the recommendations from this Select Committee are put before the Parliament and advocating for their endorsement as powerfully as I can.”

The Select Committee has spent time hearing evidence in Wudinna, Tumby Bay, Ardrossan and in the South East, engaging with local farmers, community groups and mining companies.

The final report from the Select Committee into Land Access Issues can be accessed here:

Select Committee On Land Access Final Report