The Victorian Government has announced reforms to the State’s resources sector to promote growth, transition towards renewables, environmental protection, and community involvement in new proposals.
Victoria’s Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Amendment Bill has this week passed by Parliament, allowing for continued reforms in managing quarry and minerals activities across the State.
The new provisions will focus on regulatory efforts on high-risk sites and activities while reducing red tape for standard changes.
“These changes will help deliver the materials we all need while maintaining protections for communities and the environment,” Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said.
According to the State Government, safety and environmental measures will remain intact, and there will be an increased effort to involve local communities in the decision-making process for work proposals and ongoing operations, promoting transparency and consultation throughout the site’s lifespan.
Additionally, a more modern approval system will replace the outdated one, based on a legal obligation to eliminate risk and promote excellence. The new system will be simpler and transparent for both industry and communities to understand.
By improving the regulatory system, the State Government said it can effectively manage the growing demand for resources and, at the same time, provide more safeguards for the community and the environment.
Victoria’s plan for renewable energy will rely heavily on the resources sector. With the potential for critical minerals that are significant on a global scale, the State Government noted that Victoria is poised to become a leader in the renewable energy supply chain. The Government added that materials extracted from the State will be in high demand for continued infrastructure development throughout the region.
“We’re supporting our growing mineral resources sector to get the job done, as our state demands more rock, sand and critical minerals to build new homes, hospitals, schools, transport and renewable energy infrastructure,” Minister D’Ambrosio stated.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 has allocated $23.2 million to implement efficient reforms and simplify the approval process. These measures will help maintain a balance between supporting the growth of the resources sector and safeguarding the welfare of communities and the environment.
The legislative changes will take effect from 1 July 2027, and the necessary regulatory frameworks and details will be developed in close collaboration with industry, local governments, environmental groups, and communities.
