The State’s mining monitors are to be empowered to direct former coal mine title holders to improve their rehabilitation efforts in the Latrobe Valley.
Announced by Minister for Resources, Jaala Pulford, amendments to the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 are to ensure the rehabilitation liabilities of declared mines remain the responsibility of the mining industry.
Ms Pulford said the enhanced provisions would be applied to Victoria’s declared mines and make rehabilitation a priority.
“The provisions will allow for better preparations for land rehabilitation with future generations in mind as Victoria transitions away from coal-fired energy,” Ms Pulford said.
“Under Victoria’s legislation mine rehabilitation and post-closure arrangements are operator-led and funded; these new provisions will strengthen the requirements for operators to deliver on their obligations,” she said.
“A trailing liability regime will also allow the State’s mining monitors to issue remedial directions to former title holders for any required future works.”
Ms Pulford said the amendments were in line with similar provisions passed by the Commonwealth Government for decommissioning offshore infrastructure.
“As with the Commonwealth scheme, the intent is for this legislation to be backdated to the day of announcement,” the Minister said.
She said a consultation paper on the provisions would be available later this year to allow the community, relevant Agencies, the mining industry, and other interested parties to have their say.
Ms Pulford said a Draft Declared Mine Regulations would also shortly be released for public comment.
“The Regulations aim to set clear standards for the rehabilitation plans being developed for the Latrobe Valley’s three coal mines and ensure mine operators know their responsibilities,” she said.
