Parliament passed amendments under the 1989 Mineral Resources Act to streamline new mining projects.

"The amendments remove a mandatory requirement for the Land Court to assess mining lease applications, even where no objections to the application have been lodged," Mines and Energy Minister Stephen Robertson said.

"The aim is to avoid unnecessary delays in the regulatory approvals stage for mining and petroleum projects and help get these key drivers of the economy off the ground."

The time taken to grant a mining lease depends on a number of assessment requirements, including native title, environmental, resource use and compensation considerations.

Timing can also depend on whether any objections have been lodged and the time taken for applicants to lodge appropriate rent and security.

Robertson said another new initiative would be case managers appointed to guide the mining applicants through the approvals process and to keep track of progress.

"These streamlining initiatives will deliver greater transparency and certainty for industry; and ultimately expedite the approvals process," he said.

"This will significantly reduce the burden on companies and the government.

"In the current economic climate, delays in obtaining required approvals can cause inconvenience and expense to companies that are ready to get on the ground and start development activities."