The Western Australian government has announced an overhaul of its departments, with Premier Roger Cook confirming reforms to nine out of the state’s 25 departments.

Among the most notable changes for the resources sector is the restructuring of the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DEMIRS), which will be renamed the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE). This shift reflects a renewed emphasis on exploration as a key pillar of the state's mining industry.

The existing Resource and Environmental Regulation Group will be carved out as a standalone department under the new DMPE structure. The changes, set to take effect from 1 July 2025, aim to streamline regulatory processes and better support the mining and exploration sectors.

Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) CEO Warren Pearce welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step in recognising the importance of exploration to Western Australia’s economy.

“AMEC welcomes today’s decision by the Western Australian government to return the department back to its focus on the resources sector, shedding the broader responsibilities of commerce and industry regulation,” Pearce said.

“The decision to add exploration to the title for the first time is also critical recognition of the West Australian exploration and junior minerals sector, that is so important to the discovery of future minerals and the development of new mining projects.”

Pearce also noted the role of the WA Geological Survey, which conducts exploration programmes on behalf of the state, as being a key beneficiary of the restructure.

In a further shake-up, Aboriginal Affairs policy will be consolidated within the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC). The government says this change recognises the importance of Indigenous engagement in land access matters, which are integral to both social outcomes and major project development across Western Australia.

With the reforms now outlined, affected staff will transition to their new departments over the coming months, with full implementation expected to be finalised by 1 January 2026.