Court upholds mining standards

Earth Resources Regulation continues to ensure operators within the resource sector comply with their obligations, stepping in to protect communities and environments when safeguards are breached.

Earth Resources Regulation continues to ensure operators within the resource sector comply with their obligations, stepping in to protect communities and environments when safeguards are breached.

The regulator commenced court proceedings against Sandy Mining Pty Ltd and one of its directors in September 2018 for alleged breaches of a Work Plan and making false statements.

In September 2019, Sandy Mining Pty Ltd was found guilty of developing a mine shaft outside its approved Work Plan for a Daylesford site and providing false statements to Earth Resources Regulation.

This week the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court fined the company a total of $65,000 for three charges relating to breaching its Work Plan and providing false statements.

In sentencing the Court recognised that this was not minor or incidental breech and involved a great deal of planning and work over many months.

In September 2019, the Court also found the company director provided false statements to the regulator. He was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond and required to make financial contributions totalling $6,000 to various local charities.

Earth Resources Regulation regulates Victorian mines to protect public safety and the environment.

Quotes attributable to Earth Resources Regulation’s Executive Director Anthony Hurst:

“We welcome the court’s verdict that upholds the regulatory safeguards in place to protect the community and environment.”

“While most mine operators actively comply with their approved work plans, we’ll step in to protect communities and environments when safeguards are breached.”

“Mine licence holders are expected to demonstrate that they are fit and proper to operate mine sites, this includes providing accurate information to the regulator.”

Contact: Mark Farrugia

Phone: (03) 8392 6913