Leonardo DiCaprio slams Australia’s approval of controversial mine expansion

World-famous actor and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio has criticised the Australian government for approving a mining expansion that conservationists say threatens endangered species.

DiCaprio criticises Australia’s mining approval

The Hollywood star criticised the decision in an Instagram post, highlighting the destruction of nearly 4,000 hectares of native vegetation in Western Australia's Northern Jarrah Forests. The expansion, approved by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, allows mining company South32 to clear land for bauxite extraction—the key ingredient in aluminium.

"The Australian government approved deforestation in the Jarrah Forest for mining," DiCaprio wrote to his 80 million followers. "This operation will destroy critical habitat for over 8,000 species, 80% of which are found nowhere else."

Environmental groups oppose the project, claiming it threatens black cockatoo nesting sites and other endangered wildlife, including the critically endangered woylie.

South32 defends mining expansion claims

Despite the backlash, South32 insists it has taken steps to reduce environmental harm. A spokesperson denied DiCaprio’s claims, saying the project wouldn’t clear old-growth forests and would follow strict environmental guidelines.

"Since our original proposal, we've significantly reduced the native vegetation to be cleared," the spokesperson said. "We'll implement buffer zones around habitats and rehabilitate the land after mining."

The Australian government defended its approval, saying it followed advice from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A spokesperson stated that South32 must meet strict conditions, including habitat protection and land rehabilitation.

"The Cook Labour government has done more to protect Western Australia's environment than any other in history," the spokesperson said, referencing a 2024 ban on native forest logging. However, mining exemptions remain.

Local conservationists welcomed DiCaprio’s attention to the issue, saying it brings global awareness to a critical environmental battle.

"Black cockatoos are losing their homes and food sources, and their numbers are dwindling," said Paddy Cullen, coordinator of Save the Black Cockatoos. "We need to act now to protect them."

The Northern Jarrah Forest has drawn the United Nations’ attention, which raised concerns about deforestation, habitat loss, and climate impacts.

This isn’t DiCaprio’s first criticism of Australia’s environmental policies. He’s previously condemned the Great Barrier Reef’s destruction, Queensland’s deforestation, and Tasmania’s logging practices.

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