The normal process for the NT EPA is to submit a DRAFT EIS...

The normal process for the NT EPA is to submit a DRAFT EIS (done), get feedback from the public and Govt Depts (done), then write a FINAL EIS that address all the comments raised (work in progress). That then goes back to the NT EPA for, hopefully, final approval. That process is progressing as expected. In VRMs case, the company also has to do a separate version for the Federal Govt under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. That's still in the public comment stage. Timing as to be expected.
VRM has no lithium interests. You mean silica. Dingo Hole silica is high purity quartz outcropping at the surface right near the Ammaroo Phosphate Project, so the cost of collecting samples with a hammer are negligible. One of the reasons that they are playing their cards close to the chest is to retain any first mover advantage because there may be other deposits like this. Academic research work is always slower that commercial labs.
Karinga Brine Potash is in a JV to get an edge in novel processing technology to get an advantage over competitors.