Mining Law in Western Australia
By: Michael W. Hunt
Mining Law in Western Australia has been established for more than 25 years as an essential reference for all legal issues relating to the mining industry. This new edition, the fourth, will be widely and warmly welcomed.Massive changes have taken place. There have been 15 amendments to the Mining Act and 28 amendments to the Mining Regulations since the third edition. In that period, there has been a substantial volume of case law through decisions in the High Court, the Supreme Court and the Wardens' Courts. Other significant changes have arisen as a result of another seven years' experience of the impact of the Native Title Act upon the application of mining law. The most important changes for practitioners of mining law have been made in the area of proceedings before the warden where, the administrative and judicial functions of the warden have been separated.The new edition reflects all these changes and states the law as at 1 October 2008 but some developments as a consequence of the change of the State Government since then have been noted. The basic structure of previous editions is retained - chapter by chapter commentary which follows the layout of the Mining Act itself.Although the book deals with mining law in Western Australia, it has always been regarded as having a relevance to the mining industry in other States and the Northern Territory, as broadly similar principles apply throughout Australia. This relevance has been enhanced in the fourth edition because of the expanded coverage of case law and native title issues.
AI Overview
The book "Mining Law in Western Australia" by Michael W. Hunt is a comprehensive legal reference that has been a cornerstone in the field of mining law for over three decades. Here is a detailed overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Legal Framework: The book provides an in-depth analysis of the legal framework governing mining activities in Western Australia. It covers various aspects of mining law, including exploration, production, and environmental regulations.
- Native Title and Cultural Heritage: A significant chapter in the book explores how native title and cultural heritage legislation impacts mineral exploration and production. This is crucial for understanding the complex interplay between indigenous rights and mining operations.
- Regulatory Compliance: The book delves into the regulatory requirements and compliance issues that mining companies must adhere to in Western Australia. This includes discussions on health and safety standards, environmental impact assessments, and licensing procedures.
- Case Studies and Practical Applications: The text includes case studies and practical examples to illustrate the application of mining law in real-world scenarios. This makes it a valuable resource for both legal professionals and industry practitioners.
Plot Summary
Given its nature as a legal reference, "Mining Law in Western Australia" does not have a traditional narrative plot. Instead, it is structured as a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of mining law relevant to Western Australia. The book is organized in a way that allows readers to easily navigate through various topics, from the foundational principles of mining law to specific regulatory requirements and case studies.
Critical Reception
While specific reviews are not readily available, the book has been widely recognized as an essential reference for all legal issues related to mining in Western Australia. Its longevity and continued publication indicate its value to the legal and mining communities. The 5th edition, which includes contributions from Tim Kavenagh and James Hunt, reflects the evolving nature of mining law and its ongoing relevance in the industry.
Editions and Availability
The book has been published in multiple editions, with the most recent being the 5th edition. It is available in both print and digital formats, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including legal professionals, mining companies, and students of mining law. The 5th edition is priced at AUD $225.00, inclusive of GST.