The Resources Victoria regulator has accepted a Mining Licence application from WIM Resource for the Avonbank Mineral Sands Project, located eight kilometres northeast of Horsham.
This marks a major step in the statutory process, although no decision has yet been made to grant the licence, and mining activities cannot commence unless approval is secured.
The Avonbank project aims to mine heavy mineral sands containing zircon, titanium, and rare earth elements, materials essential for renewable energy infrastructure and various everyday products.
The site has undergone extensive evaluation, including an Environment Effects Statement (EES) process, which enabled WIM Resources to submit its mining application.
The public feedback period is now open, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the project.
Comments received during this phase will be integral to determining whether the Mining Licence is granted.
Chris Webb, Executive Director of Regulatory Operations at Resources Victoria, emphasised the importance of community input, stating: “This is the opportunity for us to hear from the community about the Avonbank project — this feedback is an important part of the Mining Licence assessment.”
He added the focus was on assessing whether WIM Resource can deliver on its project proposal and whether it should be granted exclusive rights to access minerals under state mining legislation.
If approved, the Avonbank project will involve open-pit mining operations extracting approximately 11 million tonnes of ore annually over a projected 30-year mine life.
Rehabilitation efforts will progressively restore mined areas to agricultural use. Products from the mine are planned for export via road transport to the Port of Portland.
Further details about submitting feedback, including deadlines and scope, are available on Resources Victoria’s website.
The personal details of individuals providing feedback will remain confidential.
The Avonbank project represents a major opportunity for critical mineral production in Victoria but hinges on public feedback and regulatory approval before proceeding further.
