Critical support for Wimmera and Mallee communities

Former Director of the Geological Survey of Victoria and respected geoscientist, Paul McDonald, has been appointed Resources Victoria's principal community engagement adviser for communities in the Wimmera and Mallee.

Former Director of the Geological Survey of Victoria and respected geoscientist, Paul McDonald, has been appointed Resources Victoria's principal community engagement adviser for communities in the Wimmera and Mallee.

Mr McDonald brings a wealth of experience to the role having previously held executive positions within Resources Victoria, including at the Earth Resources Regulator.

Mr McDonald will support landholders and communities near proposed mineral sands developments by responding to queries about licensing, regulation and potential mining. He will also liaise with local councils and a range of other stakeholders throughout the region.

Currently living on a sheep and cattle farm in western Victoria, Mr McDonald will be based in Horsham, where there will be regular opportunities for people to find out more about critical minerals. He will travel extensively to towns between Swan Hill and Hamilton.

The Victorian Critical Minerals Roadmap was released in December 2024, making a commitment to improve community confidence in development activities. The roadmap also aims to increase the social benefits from mining the region’s critical mineral resources.

Mr McDonald’s appointment is a key milestone in the delivery of the roadmap. It will help those living near potential mineral sand developments to better understand the licensing and oversight process.