The decision is expected to spark mixed emotions of joy and devastation from the camps of pro and anti-mine campaigners when it is formally announced by Minister for Planning Tony Kelly today.

The lifespan of the mine, near Lake Cowal, is to be extended by two years to the end of 2019 with an additional 23 million tonnes of ore to be extracted.

The annual extraction rate will be increased from 6.9 to 7.5 million tonnes and could support up to an extra 150 jobs.

Before work on expanding the mine can begin, owner Barrick Ltd must meet 18 conditions imposed by the minister, including a review and update of the mine's noise management plan.

Cowal mine has been at the centre of years of controversy with protests and legal action from indigenous people claiming the mine is being used illegally without consent from traditional owners.

Dozens of anti-mine campaigners, headed by Neville "Chappy" Williams, traditionally stage an annual protest rally outside Barrick Gold during the Easter long weekend.

Earlier this month in Wagga Local Court, 11 activists were convicted and fined for trespass over last year's rally.

Bland Shire mayor Tony Lord hopes the minister's decision will put an end to the protests.

"It's very, very positive news. This application has been in front of the minister for some time," said Mr Lord.

"We are very happy to see the mine progress even further which will give more confidence to Barrick for their future developments and it is great news for jobs for the community.

"We would hope this puts an end to the protesting but everyone has the right to freedom of speech and expression as long as they do it within the limits of the law."

The Daily Advertiser was unable to contact Mr Williams for comment but Barrick Ltd is expected to welcome the decision.