Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee

The Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC) was first established in 1993. ARRTC’s membership, structure and functions were revised in 2001 in response to a recommendation by an Independent Science Panel (ISP) established by the World Heritage Committee. The ISP recommended the creation of an independent scientific advisory panel to review research activities in the Alligator Rivers Region and the scientific basis for the environmental assessment and regulation of uranium mining operations.

The primary functions of ARRTC are to:

  • independently consider and review research into, and programs for the collection and assessment of information relating to, the effects of uranium mining operations on the environment in the Alligator Rivers Region, including Kakadu National Park; and
  • make recommendations to the Minister on the nature and extent of research necessary to protect and restore the environment in the Region.

ARRTC reviews the quality and adequacy of the scientific research conducted by the Supervising Scientist, Energy Resources of Australia Ltd (operator of the Ranger uranium mine) and other relevant stakeholders. This ensures that the environmental regulation of uranium mining in the Alligator Rivers Region continues to be guided by the best available science.

For more information, see:

Membership of ARRTC

The membership of ARRTC comprises:

  • a Chairperson with scientific qualifications, appointed by the Minister;
  • one member with scientific or technical qualifications appointed by the Minister on the nomination of the Northern Land Council;
  • an independent scientific member representing environmental non-government organisations; and
  • a range of other independent scientific members, as are from time to time appointed by the Minister.

ARRTC members possess scientific qualifications and expertise in ecotoxicology, geomorphology, hydrology, hydrogeology, radiation protection and health physics, ecological risk assessment, minesite restoration, and ecology.

Meeting frequency

ARRTC meets twice a year.

Contacting ARRTC

ARRTC Secretariat
Email: ARRTCSecretariat@environment.gov.au