The Federal Government has announced it is seeking comment after the release of a standardised Deed of Access for exploration in the Woomera Prohibited Area (WPA).

 

The release of the Interim Access Arrangements will allow companies to access the WPA under the contractural Deeds of Access while preserving the security of Defence activities in the area.

 

“Industry engagement is critical to ensuring the interim arrangements are both practical for the resource industry and effective in protecting the security of Defence activities,” Defence Minister Stephen Smith said.

 

Comments on the Deed of Access can be submitted to the WPA Coordination Office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 15 June 2012 to ensure they are considered.

 

Interested parties may also choose to attend a WPA Coordination Office workshop on the Deed of Access in Adelaide on 3 May 2012.

 

Once the Deed of Access and supporting processes are finalised, Government will be in a position to mark the end of the current moratorium phase of implementation. Companies will then be allowed to apply for access to the WPA based on the coexistence framework, supported by the Deed of Access.

 

The draft Deed of Access, registration details for the workshop in Adelaide and background information on the Review are available at the WPA Coordination Office’s website at www.defence.gov.au/woomera/.

 

Questions may be directed to the WPACO Coordination Office by phone at 1300 727 420 or by email toThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..