Question details
Western Victoria Region
(2249) My question is for the Minister for Energy and Resources. Constituents have again raised concerns about Victory Minerals Ballarat Gold Mine after repeated infringement notices being issued from Resources Victoria for environmental and safety breaches. Violations include the tailings dam discharge into the Yarrowee River, which I have previously raised, failing to report a mine fire within reasonable timeframes and unauthorised vegetation removal. A February 2026 inspection revealed unauthorised work within an existing pit impacting rehabilitation plans which are crucial for the environmental preservation of the area. Minister, the pattern of noncompliance is now well established, and the time for infringement notices has passed. Can you guarantee to constituents in Ballarat that these repeated breaches will result in a loss of operating authority for Victory Minerals?
Resources Victoria’s Authorised Inspectors conduct regular inspections of the Ballarat Gold Mine and continue to work closely with co‑regulators to ensure the mine is operating safely and in accordance with its obligations.
During an inspection in February 2026, Inspectors identified non‑compliance with the approved work plan. In response, three infringement notices were issued. This was an appropriate and proportionate response to the nature of the identified breaches.
Earlier non-compliance identified this year resulted in Resources Victoria issuing remedial notices and taking enforcement action in line with regulatory practices.
The licensee was also issued an infringement notice by the EPA this year in relation to turbid water run-off from construction activity at the site, which entered the Yarrowee River. I am advised that there is no evidence of any discharge from the tailings dam.
These enforcement matters do not meet the threshold for initiating proceedings to cancel the mining licence.
Resources Victoria will continue to use all the tools at their disposal to ensure that companies entrusted with our state’s resources are managing these sites properly to protect communities and the environment.
Hon Lily D’Ambrosio MP
Minister for Climate Action
Minister for Energy and Resources
Minister for the State Electricity Commission