An independent review into the statutory framework for small-scale titles was completed in June 2024 with the release of 81 recommendations.
A working group featuring opal miners, landholders, and other key stakeholders was established to review these recommendations and advise the NSW Government.
Local media detailed a visit from MP Roy Butler and Minister for Resources Courtney Houssos to Lightning Ridge on 7 April to meet with local community members.
"The law as it stands now is cumbersome and requires updating. Following this trip to Lightning Ridge, the Minister has seen firsthand how the law impacts those on the ground and how changes to those laws will affect stakeholders,” Butler said.
"The aim of the review and the meeting this week is to formulate a better framework than we have now. I want this resolved quickly, but not at the expense of doing it properly."
Lightning Ridge Miners Association president Sebastian Deisenberger said it was a productive visit.
"The main issue that we have is access to land. In the Lightning Ridge Mining District, it was always pretty clear that there was dual occupancy of mining and grazing,” Deisenberger explained.
"Normally, they coexist, but of course, there's always room for some conflict. We have to coexist, and we should all work in harmony. Everybody should know what their rights are."
He added: "There will be room for further discussion. We will keep in touch with the minister's office and try to get another meeting."
Minister Houssos commissioned the review following the discovery of 3,343 mineral claims in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs impacted by invalid decisions.
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