Update on Avonbank mining licence application

Following acceptance of a Mining Licence application from WIM Resource for the Avonbank project, a 21-day feedback period began on 19 March.

Following acceptance of a Mining Licence application from WIM Resource for the Avonbank project, a 21-day feedback period began on 19 March.

The Earth Resources Regulator, which is part of Resources Victoria, has received over 100 formal submissions so far with a range of feedback about the project.

Based on this community input and strong local media coverage, Resources Victoria would like to clarify some matters ahead of the formal closing of the feedback period on 9 April.

The public advertising of WIM Resource’s Mining Licence application was completed correctly and complied with Victoria’s minerals legislation – no changes will be made to the length of the statutory objection period and there is no requirement to re-advertise any aspects.

The 21-day period is an opportunity for the community to provide feedback and have input into an upcoming assessment by the Earth Resources Regulator of WIM Resource’s Mining Licence application and whether the company can deliver the project to the standards required.

The strong community response to date demonstrates that the advertising and promotion of the feedback process has been effective.

While the statutory feedback period will not be extended, the Earth Resources Regulator will consider submissions made after 9 April prior to the assessment being completed. However, we encourage early submissions because it allows us to seek additional information, if it’s needed.

The assessment by the Earth Resources Regulator will consider the project’s viability, whether WIM Resource has the capacity to deliver the proposed project and whether they are ‘fit and proper’ to hold a Mining Licence.

The Earth Resources Regulator will be seeking further information from WIM Resource in relation to media reports about allegations of unethical practices during the Environmental Effects Statemen process.

If the applicant is not found to be fit and proper then a Mining Licence will not be awarded.

All the details of the Mining Licence application process, including the scope of community feedback being sought are available on our Have your say page.

Attribute quotes to Chris Webb, Resources Victoria Executive Director Regulatory Operations

“The strong community response to date demonstrates that there is good awareness of the project, the proponent and how to provide feedback ahead of the Mining Licence assessment for the Avonbank project.”

“Part of assessing WIM Resource’s Mining Licence application is determining if they are fit and proper based on the facts available to the Earth Resources Regulator. This can be reassessed at any time during the life of a Mining Licence”