The conversation around bauxite mining in Western Australia (WA) is heating up, with politicians and stakeholders engaging in a spirited debate over its future. The Greens have proposed a bold plan to phase out bauxite mining in WA’s native forests, aiming to preserve the region's rich biodiversity and water resources.
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However, industry leaders, workers, and the state government see a different path — one that balances environmental stewardship with economic vitality.
A vision for sustainability
The Greens have committed to banning new bauxite mining in WA’s native forests and gradually winding down existing operations over the next decade. They emphasise the irreplaceable value of WA’s South West forests for climate regulation, water conservation, and wildlife. Greens WA Forest Spokesperson Jess Beckerling stressed the importance of moving mining activities to cleared land and prioritising sustainable practices.
“This is about finding a better way—protecting our forests while maintaining a robust mining sector,” Beckerling said, suggesting that WA could draw inspiration from Collie’s successful transition from coal mining.
Championing economic growth
WA Labor, led by Premier Roger Cook, has strongly defended the bauxite mining industry, highlighting its critical role in the state’s economy and the global energy transition. With aluminium being a key component of clean energy technologies, Cook underscored the importance of supporting industries like Alcoa and South32, which collectively provide 7,000 jobs in WA.
“My government has already achieved historic milestones for environmental protection, from banning native forest logging to expanding conservation estates,” Cook stated. “We are committed to balancing environmental priorities with job creation and energy security.”
Bauxite: A Mineral for the future
Industry experts, including Adrienne LaBombard from the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA, champion bauxite as a ‘green metal’ essential for the global transition to renewable energy. The shallow nature of WA’s bauxite deposits allows for relatively swift rehabilitation, with efforts underway to transform mined areas into self-sustaining forests.
LaBombard noted that recent federal initiatives, such as green aluminium production credits, reaffirm the government’s recognition of alumina’s role in the energy transition.
A path forward
As the March 2025 state election approaches, the debate over bauxite mining’s future will remain a key focus for WA. Stakeholders across the spectrum agree on the need for sustainable practices but differ on the best path forward.
With WA’s bauxite reserves playing a pivotal role in both the state’s economy and the clean energy revolution, the challenge lies in finding a balance that supports workers, protects the environment, and ensures a sustainable future for all.
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