Resources Victoria has been out in force during 2025 inspecting sites throughout the state to get a better understanding how risk is being managed at mines and quarries.
The state's resources sector is playing a crucial role supplying the raw materials needed to build our homes and infrastructure as well as providing access to the minerals essential for producing renewable energy and manufacturing a wide range of everyday products.
Building community confidence in how these sites are operated is important so there is support for continued development of the state's earth resources and we can all benefit from what it delivers.
Across Victoria, between February and the end of June this year, more than 350 sites were inspected across 50 local government areas. The overwhelming majority of sites inspected by the regulator were assessed as low risk, with no major risks identified.
Some operators needed to be reminded of their responsibilities. At about 40 per cent of sites, inspectors required the operator to take action to address minor issues identified and the majority of these have been resolved in the required time without the need for any enforcement action.
A recurring issue was a lack of progressive rehabilitation. Some operators had not started rehabilitation and many of those that had started work had made insufficient progress.
Other issues identified by the regulator include inadequate signage, inappropriate fuel management, unsecured gates and fencing, derelict equipment left on site and poor waste storage.
During future inspections and audits, Resources Victoria will remain focussed on operational risk, progressive rehabilitation and ensuring all work plan obligations are being met.
Quotes attributable to Executive Director Regulatory Operations Laura Helm
"It has been a big year out in the field for the regulator and we're well on the way to inspecting every mine and quarry in Victoria at least once by mid-2026."
"What we are seeing is that operators want to do the right thing. Where we have identified room for improvement, they have completed required actions promptly."
"Managing a resources site is a complex and Resources Victoria is keen to help industry understand and deliver their requirements."
