On 12 March 2013, the Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities announced his intention to introduce amendments to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 to require federal assessment and approval of coal seam gas and large coal mining developments which have a significant impact on a water resource. The proposed amendments apply to both new and existing proposals. A Regulation Impact Statement was required for this proposal, but the Prime Minister granted an exemption on the basis of exceptional circumstances. A post-implementation review will be required within 1 to 2 years of its implementation.