Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio has vocally criticised the Australian government for greenlighting an expansion of the Worsley bauxite mine, which environmental activists argue threatens endangered species. South32, a West Australian mining company, received approval from Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek last month to clear nearly 4,000 hectares of native vegetation in the Northern Jarrah Forests, an area home to various endangered species, including black cockatoos.
Environmental groups expressed fury over the decision, emphasising that this expansion endangers critical habitats for vulnerable wildlife, such as the critically endangered Woylie. DiCaprio echoed their concerns in a recent Instagram post, highlighting the ongoing deforestation in the Jarrah Forest. He pointed out that South32 plans to clear approximately 9,600 acres of old-growth forest, which supports over 8,000 species, 80% of which are unique to the area.
Despite a ban on native forest logging in Western Australia — effective since 2024 — the current policies still allow for the clearance of these forests for mining purposes, prioritising industrial development over environmental conservation. DiCaprio, known for his dedication to environmental protection and having established Earth Alliance in 2019 to combat climate change, has long advocated for the preservation of natural habitats.
In response to the government’s decision, South32’s CEO Graham Kerr described the approval as positive for the company and beneficial for the local economy. The company plans to commence operations in the newly approved areas during the 2025 financial year. The Department of Climate Change, Energy and the Environment has been approached for comments regarding this contentious approval.