Leonardo DiCaprio, the Hollywood star known for his dedication to environmental causes, has once again voiced his concerns over ecological threats, this time targeting the Australian government for its controversial approval of the South32 bauxite mine expansion near Boddington, Western Australia. On March 12, 2025, DiCaprio took to Instagram to express vehement disapproval of the project, alarming activists across the globe.
According to DiCaprio, the Australian government sanctioned deforestation within the Jarrah Forest, facilitating the mining of bauxite, the primary ingredient used to produce aluminum. He revealed alarming statistics, stating, "The mining company @south_32 is set to clear 9,600 acres of this old growth forest, which is home to threatened species like the Critically Endangered Woylie." He elaborated, "This operation will destroy the habitat of over 8,000 species, 80 percent of which are found nowhere else on Earth." This expansion not only jeopardizes countless wildlife but also raises significant questions about the government's commitment to environmental protection.
DiCaprio's post was catalyzed by the decision of Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, who granted approval for the mine expansion back in February 2025. Activists and conservationists have expressed outrage over the clearing of approximately 4,000 hectares of bushland, fearing irreversible harm to local ecosystems.
Critics of the project have noted the contradictions within Australian environmental policy. Although logging of native forests was officially banned after 2024, mining operations continue to exploit regulatory loopholes, enabling environmental degradation amid governmental prioritization of mining development over conservation efforts. DiCaprio underscored this hypocrisy, stating, "While native forest logging was banned, clearance for mining is still permitted due to separate policies," highlighting the dissonance between environmental policies and corporate interests.
The backlash from DiCaprio's comments reached the office of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who made headlines with his dismissive remarks during a press conference on March 13, 2025. When asked about the actor's criticism, he responded, "If Leonardo DiCaprio knows where a bauxite mine is in Western Australia, I’d be very surprised." This sentiment was echoed by South32, which issued a statement claiming DiCaprio's post contained factual errors. The company asserted, "The Worsley Mine Development Project will be undertaken with strict approval conditions...to support the viability of species including the Black Cockatoo."
South32 has attempted to convey its commitment to environmental stewardship by emphasizing its intention to minimize habitat destruction. The statement indicated plans include measures for clearing and rehabilitation of land, with commitments made to create protected zones around known habitats. Nevertheless, the skepticism surrounding these claims persists among environmentalists who feel the mining expansion threatens irreplaceable natural ecosystems.
Activist groups and concerned citizens are rallying behind DiCaprio’s call to action, instigated by fears about habitat loss and diminished biodiversity. Conservation groups, including those advocating for the Black Cockatoo, have celebrated DiCaprio’s involvement. For example, the Save the Black Cockatoos group remarked, "Thrilled to see him bring attention to the impact of mining on our forests," pointing out the symbolic nature of his celebrity status amplifying urgent environmental messages.
The struck balance between ecological integrity and industrial development continues to divide opinion across Australia. While the mining sector argues for economic contributions and job creation—claims made by South32 which cited its role as one of the largest employers and contributors to local communities—environmental advocates, exemplified by organizations like @rewild and @wild.ark, condemn the loss of local wildlife habitats.
The controversy surrounding the South32 mine expansion is not DiCaprio’s first brush with Australian environmental policy. Back in 2014, he criticized former Prime Minister Tony Abbott during the Washington D.C. dinner for his government’s lack of action on the degradation of the Great Barrier Reef. "What once had looked like an endless underwater utopia is now riddled with bleached coral reefs and massive dead zones," he lamented then. Such comments indicate DiCaprio’s long-standing commitment to conservation.
This latest incident reflects broader sentiments shared by many Australians who are increasingly concerned about the impact of climate change and environmental policies. Local activists lament feeling ignored by their government, describing the approval of the Worsley mine as deeply disappointing. Mereana Lewis from Locals for Environmental Action and Protection (LEAP) stated, "We are devastated... we feel like no one has taken notice of our concerns.”
Advocates predict the fight against the mine expansion will continue, with protests and campaigns expected to gain momentum. The conversation surrounding balancing mining development with environmental preservation will remain relevant as Australia grapples with its identity amid global climate discourse. Chatter from the community insists on the need for changes to policy frameworks to protect legendary habitats and the distinctive fauna of Australia.
With DiCaprio using his platform to spotlight these issues, questions about social responsibility and the responsibilities of corporations and governments link back to fundamental discussions about environmentalism. The forthcoming effect of the South32 project could serve as both a warning and lesson for policymakers on the importance of eco-conscious governance and discourse.