PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Victorian government has introduced new assessment guidelines to the resources sector to provide assurance of a company’s track record, and the records of its directors and executives.

Resources Minister Jaclyn Symes said this week that a focus would be placed on minerals explorers and miners who could prove they were reputable, community-focused and set up appropriately for the duration of projects, including the full rehabilitation of sites around the state.

The new guidelines would provide greater assurance for farmers and communities that public safety, infrastructure and the environment would be protected when minerals explorers and miners work on both private and public land, Symes said.

The changes would also benefit the sector by providing upfront and consistent information about how mining licence applications were assessed, making it easier for people with a good track record to apply.

“We’re raising the bar to make sure our mining sector employs the most qualified and reputable people to access our state’s mineral resources with a strong focus on supporting the communities they work in,” Symes said.

“We’re attracting people to our minerals and mining industry with a strong track record of integrity and collaborating with the community, to ensure we can keep supporting local economies and creating Victorian jobs.”

These changes have been part of the process for assessing potential licensees for the Stavely ground release in western Victoria and will also be considered for the Lockington ground release in northern Victoria later this year.

The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) has welcomed the guidelines, with the MCA’s executive director in Victoria, James Sorahan saying that the mining sector supported clear, certain and predictable regulation incorporating economic, environmental and social considerations.