Stakeholder engagement must underpin energy sector development to ensure its sustainability. Before MEPAU begins substantial work on major projects or existing facilities, it will assess regulatory, environmental and social impacts alongside commercial and technical considerations. This process includes environmental and social assessments to help understand and manage risks and opportunities.

In undertaking its operations, MEPAU consults with local landowners, Traditional Owners, communities, governments and environmental experts to help develop our plans and inform our approach.

MEPAU is required to obtain a number of regulatory approvals before the construction of projects can commence and in order to carry out any operations. The key government departments that assess the environmental impacts of our activities are the Department of Mining, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER).

MEPAU recognises the importance of its role in delivering long term social benefits for the communities in which we work.

We generate community and social benefits, often in collaboration with our joint venture partners, through supporting initiatives, projects and activities that:

• Assist with skills development, training opportunities and education;
• Provide training and/or employment opportunities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons;
• Support regional development activities, including partnerships and sponsorships;
• Contribute to community projects, town services and facilities; and
• Support a regionally-based workforce.