Legislation that will enable mining giant BHP Billiton to expand its Olympic Dam operations is currently before the South Australian Parliament.

 

The legislation has been introduced before parliament after an indenture agreement was signed between the SA Government and BHP Billiton.

 

Although the State Opposition has not declared support of the legislation, it is considered unlikely that they will block its passage.

 

South Australian Premier Mike Rann urged parliament to pass the bill as swiftly as possible, describing the expansion as a ‘project of state, national and global significance’ that will bring enormous benefit to the state.

 

The Greens have continued to voice their concern over the issue, saying that the further construction of copper and uranium mines in the state would be an huge threat to public health.

 

Despite the Federal, Northern Territory and South Australian governments granting environmental approval for the expansion, the State Greens have argued that the giant tailings dam would see millions of tonnes of carcinogens stored in the area.

 

The Greens have threatened to delay passage of the legislation until next year, a move that could further destabilise the South Australian Government as Premier Mike Rann steps down from his role to be replaced by State Education Minister Jay Weatherhill.