Lessons learnt from QLD PRCP audits

At Onward, we’re proud to have delivered QLD’s very first progressive rehabilitation and closure plan (PRCP) schedule audit way back in 2024. It was a milestone not just for us, but for the state’s mining industry, which is navigating an evolving regulatory landscape that puts rehabilitation and closure front and centre.

We’ve continued to undertake PRCP audits, supporting PRCP holders navigate them for the first time. All our audits have been successfully submitted to the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) on time and on budget. Counter to what has been the experience with PRCPs, DETSI has not required further information after audit report submission.

PRCPs were introduced to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (QLD) in 2019 with the intent of driving outcomes for mined land by making sure rehabilitation is planned, staged, and progressive. If a mine operates under a site-specific environmental authority (EA), it is required to have a PRCP in place. Keeping on top of your PRCP commitments is critical. Failing to comply with your PRCP schedule is an offence under the Act.

Why are PRCP schedule audits required?

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (QLD), the holder of the PRCP schedule must commission an independent audit of the schedule every three years. The audit must be undertaken by a rehabilitation auditor who meets the Department’s eligibility requirements.

Proposed changes

However, just a couple of years in, these three-yearly audits don’t look to be lasting long! The Environmental Protection (Efficiency and Streamlining) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 proposes to remove the requirement for mandatory three-yearly audits and will instead only require audits as directed by the administering authority – the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).

Lessons learnt from our PRCP schedule audits

• Ensure you’re filing evidence methodically, this will save time and ensure a smooth audit

• Engage an auditor early, ideally before the audit period ends

• Understand your PRCP schedule and how site has progressed against areas and milestones

Onward’s multidisciplinary team is ready to support the sector in meeting these obligations and navigating new processes.