The Victorian government is strengthening mine rehabilitation requirements in the Wimmera Mallee to ensure future critical minerals projects do not compromise the state’s prime agricultural land.
The government announced the formation of the Mineral Sands Agricultural Land Restoration Working Group. The independent body will bring together farmers, scientific experts, and resources sector representatives to provide evidence-based advice on restoring soil productivity post-mining.
The initiative comes as mineral sands exploration ramps up across western Victoria, driven by the state’s Critical Minerals Roadmap. The working group aims to address widespread community concerns regarding the long-term impacts of these developments on farming infrastructure and soil health.
Monash University sustainable mining expert Professor Mohan Yellishetty will chair the group, which includes representatives from the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF), local Catchment Management Authorities, Agriculture Victoria, the Minerals Council of Australia, and both the Yarriambiack and Horsham councils.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio noted that land restoration must be a core component of any resources project.
“Restoring agricultural land in the Wimmera Mallee following mineral sands development is a critical part of the mining process, not an optional add-on,” she said.
“We are making sure farmers have a seat at the table to tell us about their concerns and share their expertise.”
VFF Grains Director and incoming president Ryan Milgate highlighted the high stakes for the region, noting that while Victoria holds just 3 per cent of Australia’s arable land, it generates a massive 25 per cent of the nation’s total agricultural output.
“It’s imperative if this land is mined, we ensure it can be restored to its former condition,” Milgate said.
A broad range of stakeholders and technical experts will be engaged by the group to ensure robust, practical and regionally relevant advice is provided to Resources Victoria.
With more mining planned to take place in the Wimmera Mallee in the coming years, this working group will inform miners about how to minimise impacts on long-term farm productivity.
