Mine Free Glenaladale has welcomed a decision by Murray Watt to classify the proposed Fingerboards mineral sands mine as a nuclear action under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The ruling means the project, proposed by Gippsland Critical Minerals, will undergo a more comprehensive federal assessment due to the presence of radioactive minerals including thorium, monazite and uranium in the ore body. Mine Free Glenaladale spokesperson Robyn Grant said the community had hoped the proposal would be rejected outright, but viewed the inclusion of nuclear provisions as a significant step toward addressing concerns over radioactive dust, tailings disposal and contamination of nearby waterways.

The federal review will also examine possible impacts on nationally significant environmental assets, including Ramsar wetlands, threatened species and migratory birds in East Gippsland. Community opposition to the project has been ongoing for several years, with expert evidence from previous environmental hearings warning that radiation health risks may be greater than current regulatory limits suggest. Residents say the stricter assessment is essential to ensure public health and environmental safety are fully considered before any final decision is made.