NAG, page-136

What he actually said was "Application signed off and at Minister level from advisory board." I read that it's been through the department and other stakeholders and has only the final ministers signature left who is unlikely not to follow the advisory boards recommendation. So almost approval.

Next a permit is required. Using Mogga's example it's like getting approval to import a car. Once you've gotten approval and imported it you still need to get it registered to drive it on the road.

Nag will soon have approval but still needs a permit.