New board set to shape the future of coal mine rehabilitation

The Victorian Government is looking for individuals to help shape positive mine rehabilitation outcomes in the Latrobe Valley as members of the Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority Board.

The Victorian Government is looking for individuals to help shape positive mine rehabilitation outcomes in the Latrobe Valley as members of the Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority Board.

From 30 June 2020, the new Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority will assume the functions of the Latrobe Valley Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner.

The authority’s role will include overseeing the implementation of the Latrobe Valley Regional Rehabilitation Strategy and more broadly contributing to safe, stable and sustainable mine rehabilitation outcomes for the region.

The authority will also provide advice directly to the Minister for Resources about mine rehabilitation and ensure locals are engaged in what is an important issue for the Latrobe Valley.

Positions on the Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority Board, including a part-time Chairperson, a Deputy Chairperson and two members, are currently being advertised. All positions are three-year appointments.

The board will be supported by a full-time Chief Executive Officer and staff in managing the authority.

Applications close 8 March 2020, with recruitment expected to be completed by May 2020. Visit Get on Board (getonboard.vic.gov.au) for more information and to apply

The Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority Board will be situated at the Latrobe Valley GovHub in Morwell from early 2021.

Earlier this month Earth Resource Regulation released the Regulatory Practice Strategy for the Rehabilitation of Earth Resources Sites (PDF - 2.1 MB) . The strategy aims to help mine and quarry operators across the state plan for site rehabilitation over their full life cycle.

The Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority is being established in response to recommendations of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry.

Quotes attributable to Executive Director Earth Resources Policy & Programs Jane Burton

“It’s important that locals understand how the rehabilitation of the state’s coal mines will take place, have confidence in the process and appreciate the long-term community benefits. The Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority will play a key role in keeping communities up to date.”

“Selecting board members is a significant step in establishing the authority to oversee the implementation of the Latrobe Valley Regional Rehabilitation Strategy and provide advice to government about mine rehabilitation.”

Contact: Mark Farrugia

Phone: (03) 8392 6913