Thursday, 2 May 2019

Ministers statements: mineral resources guidelines

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Resources) (12:06): I rise to make my ministers statement today in my capacity as Minister for Resources. I would like to inform the house that the Andrews Labor government is making changes to strengthen Victoria’s resources guidelines that set a high standard for mineral explorers and miners entrusted with access to the state’s mineral resources. There is certainly no place for mining cowboys in Victoria. We want to support minerals explorers and miners who can prove that they are reputable, community focused and set up appropriately for the duration of projects, including the full rehabilitation of sites around the state. It is exactly what these guidelines are designed to do.

This industry employs 120 000 people across Victoria. The state’s minerals, exploration and mining sectors are growing steadily, and it is important to raise the bar on who can access our important state-owned minerals. New assessment guidelines will make sure a company’s track record and the records of its directors and executives are examined when considering licensing decisions. The new guidelines will provide greater assurances for farmers and communities that public safety, infrastructure and the environment will be protected when mineral explorers and miners work on both private and public land. The changes will also benefit the sector by providing up-front and consistent information about how mining licence applications are assessed, making it easier for people who have a good track record to apply.

Last year we launched Victoria’s first mineral resources strategy, State of Discovery. Victoria’s wealth was built on goldmining, and the resources industry is continuing to prosper across the state, increasing opportunities for exploration and development in regional areas. This is great news for job creation and the boosting of our country communities.