By 2021, on current trends, less than 8 per cent of ex-mining land in Queensland, Australia will be rehabilitated land supporting alternative uses (Queensland Government ICFARS, 2017). Attaining and maintaining an acceptable post-mining land use for future generations is integral to the concept of sustainability of mining. Without appropriate transfer to subsequent use, areas of post-mining land may remain vacant and be unable to be used productively, as well as potentially being a source of pollution and environmental degradation. Policies and processes that optimise rehabilitation and post-mining land use planning are critical in assisting regional economies to avoid post-mining decline and transition to a viable post-mining future. This paper proposes a role for stakeholders in integrated closure planning and agreeing on a beneficial re-purposing of the land. The latter is one of the four goals of mine rehabilitation and closure specified by regulators in Queensland and other jurisdictions. Engaging with stakeholders including Indigenous people, government agencies, community organisations and private landowners for perspectives on future land use options increases the likelihood of an effective and acceptable closure plan. Although current guidelines require stakeholder consultation, few jurisdictions have a clear process for involving key stakeholders and incorporating a range of local and regional perspectives, including those of potential future land users, about the utility and socio-economic value of ex-mining leases and associated opportunities and risks.
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