Social Impact Assessment for the Clermont Mine Closure Preparedness Project
December 17, 2020
Wall Planning Group (WPG) was engaged to undertake a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) for the Clermont Mine Closure Preparedness Project. This important assessment
laid the groundwork for an ongoing collaboration with Glencore to develop and implement a Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP) for the mine's closure. Recognising the complexity of mine closures in remote regions, the project aimed to balance community concerns with potential opportunities, ensuring that long-term sustainability and social wellbeing were at the heart of closure planning.
Mine closures present unique social and economic challenges for local communities that have long relied on the industry for employment, services, and identity. Understanding this, WPG approached the project with a deep commitment to meaningful engagement and sustainable development.
Scope of the Social Impact Assessment
WPG led an extensive engagement program to inform the SIA, including:
- One-on-one consultation sessions with key stakeholders.
- Consultation workshops to gather diverse perspectives.
- A mine site tour to contextualise community feedback.
- Focus groups to delve deeper into local priorities and concerns.
The core objective was to identify and assess the social impacts—both positive and negative—of the mine’s eventual closure, and to support the development of responsive
strategies that ensure a just transition for the affected community.
Key Findings & Recommendations:
The SIA highlighted a range of community concerns and expectations, such as potential job losses, reduced local spending, future land use uncertainty, and the emotional impact of closure. At the same time, opportunities were identified, including land rehabilitation, economic diversification, and new community partnerships.
WPG recommended:
- A clear and transparent communication plan to keep stakeholders informed throughout the closure process.
- Early investment in economic transition planning, including local workforce retraining programs.
- Strategies to repurpose infrastructure and retain community amenities.
- Ongoing stakeholder engagement to refine closure strategies and maintain trust.
Outcome & Impact
The SIA has served as a foundational piece in shaping Glencore’s Social Impact Management Plan, helping to align closure planning with community expectations and regional development goals. Through meaningful engagement and balanced planning, the project has demonstrated the importance of
integrating social considerations into mine lifecycle management.
This case study highlights WPG’s expertise in complex resource sector projects and our commitment to sustainable, community-focused outcomes. By addressing the social dimensions of mine closure early and thoroughly, we helped our client reduce risk and enhance social and political licence to operate.
WPG remains a trusted partner in delivering sustainable planning solutions across Queensland’s evolving resource landscape.
