Alcoa Ordered to Keep Greater Distance From Perth Drinking Water and Trees Under New State Rules

Mining giant Alcoa has been instructed to maintain a wider distance from Perth's drinking water sources and significant trees following a new enhanced environmental order announced by the Western Australian government.

According to the state government report published on October 29, 2026, the updated regulations prohibit mining within two kilometres of any water reservoir, an increase from the previous one-kilometre limit. Additionally, the rules expand the buffer zone around black cockatoo nesting trees and other significant trees from 10 metres to 50 metres.

Key Environmental Rules and Requirements

• Water Reservoir Buffer: Mining is now banned within two kilometres of any water reservoir.
• Tree Protection: A 50-metre buffer zone is established around black cockatoo nesting and significant trees, up from 10 metres.
• Survey Mandate: Alcoa must survey proposed mining areas to locate significant trees, report their positions to the government, and mark out prohibited work zones.

Background and Official Responses

Alcoa has operated in Western Australia for more than six decades. While the company's operations have drawn closer to the Serpentine Dam over the years, the reporting outlet noted there is no evidence the company has ever impacted drinking water.

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn stated that the new conditions strengthen protections for drinking water and black cockatoo habitats while acknowledging the company's local employment role. Premier Roger Cook indicated that further conditions could be applied in the future as part of modernising state agreements.

An Alcoa spokesperson stated that the company welcomed the decision and remained focused on meeting operational requirements. Conversely, conservation groups expressed mixed reactions. Greens environment spokesperson Jess Beckerling stated that while the 50-metre buffer is an improvement, it does not guarantee tree survival. Matt Roberts from the Conservation Council of Western Australia argued that the government should focus on closing the mine rather than issuing stricter conditions.

Readers can verify the original announcement through official Western Australian government media statements and environmental assessment records.