The Australian Democrats today welcomed the decision of BHP not to renew its mineral exploration lease in the Gammon Ranges National Park.

"It is pleasing to see the Big Australian acting like a true Australian," Australian Democrats leader, Mike Elliott, said today.

"Despite strong public feeling that South Australians do not want mining in their national parks, in the last twelve months the state government has approved mineral exploration in Coongie Lakes and Yumbarra.

"As a consequence many South Australians were concerned that the Gammon Ranges were the next to go.

"The Australian Democrats welcome the decision by BHP because it reflects the wishes of the majority of South Australians."