Full Breakdown
Federal Court Overturns Block on McPhillamys Gold Mine in NSW
By Drooid · · How we work
Federal Court Decision
On October 14, 2026, Federal Court Justice James Stellios ruled that the 2024 ban on the McPhillamys gold-mine project, imposed by former environment minister Tanya Plibersek, lacked procedural fairness. The judgment sent the proposal back to the current minister, Murray Watt, without assessing the merits of the Indigenous heritage claim. The decision removed the legal obstacle that had prevented Regis Resources from constructing a tailings dam at the headwaters of the Belubula River.
Background & Context
The McPhillamys mine, valued at about A$1.3 billion, was approved by the NSW state government but halted after an Indigenous group, represented by Wiradjuri-Gamillaroi woman Nyree Reynolds, argued the site was part of a Dreaming story concerning the blue-banded bee. Plibersek’s 2024 declaration cited concerns that the NSW legislative framework could not adequately protect the area. Regis Resources contended that the ban rendered the project infeasible, while the state argued the planning process had been “robust.”
Official Statements & Responses
Premier Chris Minn s said the mine must proceed, emphasizing job creation and investment. Federal Resources Minister Murray Watt said the government respects the court’s finding and will seek advice on next steps, noting the need for a clearer cultural-heritage system. NSW Resources Minister Courtney Houssos described the project as essential for diversifying the state economy and argued that heritage protection and mining should not be a zero-sum issue. Regis Resources CEO Jim Beyer expressed eagerness to move forward, pledging constructive engagement in any redetermination of the Indigenous claim and highlighting the project’s potential economic and social benefits for the Central NSW region.
Data & Statistics
- Project cost: A$1.3 billion.
- Planned ore processing capacity: up to 8.5 million tonnes per year.
- Estimated time to locate a new dam site, if required: up to 10 years (according to Regis Resources).
Verbatim Quote
“I want that mine to go ahead, I understand that that’s not the view of the federal government, but we need the investment,” — Premier Chris Minns