Wall Planning Group was proud to be engaged in the preparation of a Social Assessment and Analysis for Cape Flattery Silica Mines, located in Far North Queensland. The project contributes to Australia’s strong reputation as a global supplier of high-quality silica, which is essential in the production of glass and other industrial products. This opportunity extended WPG’s capabilities beyond our coal mining experience and into the emerging and evolving field of silica resource development.

Cape Flattery Silica Mines initiated the assessment process in response to statutory requirements under the State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971 and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The goal was to understand and address the social context surrounding the project as part of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process.

Scope of the Social Impact Assessment

WPG’s scope involved evaluating the social landscape of the communities within the Hope Vale region, with a focus on the town of Hope Vale and surrounding remote dwellings. These small and predominantly Indigenous communities presented a unique and important cultural and social context for the project.

Our responsibilities included:

• Gathering and analysing baseline demographic and community data.
• Conducting research to understand the social values, concerns, and expectations of the local population.
• Identifying both risks and opportunities associated with the project from a community perspective.
• Recommending practical mitigation strategies and community benefit initiatives

Key Findings & Recommendations:

The assessment revealed a number of social dynamics within the region, including the importance of respectful engagement with Indigenous communities, the need for culturally appropriate consultation, and opportunities for local employment and training.

Recommendations from WPG focused on:

• Culturally respectful community engagement practices.
• Initiatives to enhance community wellbeing and economic participation.
• Risk mitigation strategies to manage any potential social disruption.

Outcome & Value Delivered

The Social Assessment and Analysis provided Cape Flattery Silica Mines with a well-informed understanding of the regional social context. This enabled the project to align more closely with community values and expectations, improving social license to operate and strengthening stakeholder relationships.

This case study showcases WPG’s growing versatility across various mining sectors and reaffirms our commitment to socially responsible project planning—especially in remote, culturally rich areas of Queensland.