Does the Minister believe that if the tailings dam associated with the proposed Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project contaminates waterways crossing private farmland and/or vineyard properties downstream, those landowners should have a clear and fully funded legal pathway to compensation?

Answer

The Fast-track Approvals Act 2025 does not change the underlying basis of the regulatory frameworks for which it is issuing consents/approvals. The ability of a private landowner to seek compensation through civil proceedings is not changed. The conditions of approval will be set by the Expert Panel considering the project (including bonding requirements under the Crown Minerals Act 1991 and resource consent conditions under the Resource Management Act 1991).