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Open-pit gold mine with layered earth and vibrant sunset sky.Open-pit gold mine with layered earth and vibrant sunset sky.

Fimiston Gold Mine Section 38 Approvals

CDM Smith supported KCGM in securing environmental approvals for the Fimiston Gold Mine Expansion, delivering peer reviews, updated management plans, and strategic advisory services. 

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Julia Curran BSc, PGDip
Regional Business Leader - Western

Section 38 environmental approvals support for the Fimiston Gold Mine Expansion

CDM Smith partnered with Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) to deliver comprehensive environmental approvals support for the Fimiston Gold Mine Expansion under Section 38 of the EP Act. The team conducted detailed peer reviews, updated management plans in line with EPA 2021 guidance, and prepared responses to regulator information requests. Our collaborative, advisory approach ensured KCGM’s submissions demonstrated robust management of environmental risks and strong community consideration. 

Comprehensive environmental approvals support

Delivered full Section 38 approvals support, including peer review and updates to the Environmental Review document. Ensured alignment with current EPA requirements and Ministerial Statement review processes, helping KCGM navigate complex regulatory frameworks with confidence. 

Guideline-aligned management plans 

Prepared and updated management plans in accordance with the EPA 2021 Management Plan Guidance, integrating best practice for noise, vibration, air quality, and emissions management. The plans demonstrated proactive mitigation and reinforced KCGM’s environmental stewardship.

Strategic advisory and regulatory liaison

Provided strategic advice and peer review of responses to EPA Services’ requests for information. Supported effective communication with regulators and maintained clear alignment between environmental documentation and operational realities. 

Community-focused environmental management  

Given the mine’s proximity to the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, special attention was paid to noise, blast vibration, flyrock, and air emissions. CDM Smith’s technical inputs helped demonstrate to regulators and the community that operational impacts were effectively managed to safeguard local wellbeing.

Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) engaged CDM Smith to support environmental approvals for the Fimiston Gold Mine Expansion under Section 38 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986. The revised proposal included the Ivanhoe cutback, expansion of tailings storage facilities, extended waste rock dumps, and additional supporting infrastructure. CDM Smith’s role encompassed peer review and update of the Environmental Review document, preparation of management plans aligned to EPA 2021 guidance, and review of responses to regulator requests for information. The project required continuous adaptation to changes in EPA guidance and project scope, as well as close coordination with KCGM’s internal team and external stakeholders. Given the mine’s proximity to Kalgoorlie-Boulder, detailed assessments of noise, blast vibration, flyrock, and air emissions were essential to demonstrate KCGM’s commitment to community health and environmental responsibility. CDM Smith’s strategic and technical expertise helped position the project for a smooth and credible approvals process. 

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Julia Curran

Associate Environmental Scientist

Julia Curran has 18 years of experience in environmental impact assessment, approvals, management, strategic advice, project management and contractor management

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