Industry welcomes strong governmental support for Victorian mining sector
The local mining industry has welcomed a number of changes made by the Victorian government in support of the sector.
The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) says the state’s Critical Minerals Roadmap has put Victoria firmly on the map as a supplier of strategic minerals, with approvals for two mineral sands projects a major step for the state’s mining and regional development.
MCA Victoria executive director James Sorahan says the roadmap commits to minerals industry policy priorities advocated by the MCA and provides a clearer and more certain focus for pathways to development.
Streamlined approvals
Mr Sorahan said reforms to the Environmental Effects Statement (EES) process and the retention of the Resources Victoria Approvals Co-ordination (RVAC) with a devoted critical minerals element will ensure more certain and timely approvals for investors.
“Victoria’s RVAC is the leading Australian model to shepherd mining projects through complex permitting across multiple regulators,” he said.
“Demand for our rare earths, antinomy and other critical minerals is set to grow as essential inputs to modern technology.”
“Victoria must seize the opportunity [and] this sends a strong signal that it is open to investment.”
Economic growth statement
Southern Cross Gold (ASX: SXG) managing director Michael Hudson is another supporter of the moves, including the new economic growth statement.
“The statement delivers several transformative initiatives including reforms to slash EES timeframes to 18 months, [which] demonstrates Victoria’s commitment to cutting red tape while maintaining environmental standards,” Mr Hudson said.
“This provides the certainty needed to attract major investments across all sectors, including critical minerals.”
Mineral sands a winner
Mr Sorahan also praised the government’s support of VHM’s (ASX: VHM) Goschen project and the Avonbank project operated by WIM Resource.
He said it is a sign that Victoria can diversify regional economies with the contribution of new industries.
“This is a major milestone for Victoria, with the last currently operating mine permitted almost 20 years ago,” he said.
“Victoria’s return to the mining of mineral sands and rare earths, including critical minerals for technologies the world uses every day, is an investment in the future.
Goschen progress
VHM chief executive officer Ron Douglas said the minister’s endorsement underpins acceleration of the company’s project development plans towards final investment decision, construction and production.
“This recommendation is the result of extensive technical, environmental and social studies conducted over several years and follows a rigorous evaluation process—a momentous outcome for all parties involved,” he said.
The Goschen mining licence application will now be assessed by Resources Victoria for approval and the ministerial terms will inform the project’s work plans moving forward.