Resources Victoria has intensified its efforts in 2025 to ensure that mining and quarrying operations across the state are managing risks effectively and meeting their obligations.
Between February and the end of June, the regulator inspected more than 350 sites across 50 local government areas, in what it describes as one of its most extensive compliance campaigns to date.
The state’s resources sector continues to play a vital role in underpinning Victoria’s growth, however, maintaining community trust in how these sites are managed is essential if the sector is to continue expanding in a sustainable way.
Resources Victoria reported that the “overwhelming majority” of sites visited during this year’s inspections were assessed as low risk, with no major safety or operational risks identified.
Nevertheless, inspectors found shortcomings at about 40 per cent of sites, requiring operators to address minor issues such as signage, fencing, waste management, and equipment safety.
Most of these operators complied with the regulator’s directions within the prescribed timeframe, removing the need for enforcement measures.
According to the regulator, this outcome reflects an industry that is largely compliant and responsive.
However, the inspections also revealed areas where practices need strengthening.
One of the most persistent concerns was a lack of progressive rehabilitation — the process of systematically restoring land disturbed by mining activities while operations are ongoing.
Some operators were yet to commence rehabilitation, while others had made only minimal progress despite existing obligations.
The regulator emphasised that rehabilitation is vital not only for environmental stewardship but also for maintaining public confidence in the industry.
Other issues flagged during inspections included inadequate fuel storage controls, unsecured access points, poor waste storage practices, and derelict equipment remaining on sites.
Looking ahead, Resources Victoria has pledged to continue with its proactive program of inspections and audits.
Enforcement teams will remain focused on operational risk control, progressive rehabilitation, and ensuring all work plan obligations are met.
Executive Director, Regulatory Operations, Laura Helm, said the inspection campaign was making strong inroads toward full state-wide coverage.
“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,” Helm said.
She added that the regulator was encouraged by the positive response from industry operators during the inspections.
“What we are seeing is that operators want to do the right thing,” Helm said.
“Where we have identified room for improvement, they have completed required actions promptly.”
Helm emphasised that working closely with industry would remain a priority.
“Managing a resources site is a complex and Resources Victoria is keen to help industry understand and deliver their requirements,” she said.
Industry insiders and community stakeholders alike will be watching closely as the regulator seeks to strike a balance between encouraging resource development and maintaining high standards of safety, rehabilitation, and environmental performance.
With the resources sector poised to support the state’s housing pipeline, infrastructure build-out, and renewable energy goals, Resources Victoria’s efforts are seen as critical in ensuring that mining and quarrying operations retain their social licence.
The regulator’s findings point to an industry that is largely operating with low safety and environmental risks, but one where continued oversight and education remain necessary to raise standards in areas such as rehabilitation and site management.
By mid-2026, when the regulator expects to have inspected every mine and quarry in Victoria at least once, stakeholders will have a clearer picture of how well the sector is meeting its responsibilities — and how effectively regulators are ensuring that the benefits of earth resources are realised without compromising community confidence or environmental outcomes.
