From the Secretariat (Issue 116)

Extractive Industry updates

DR ELIZABETH GIBSON, General Manager of the CMPA.

A feeling of déjà vu with current COVID-19 circuit breaker restrictions in place from 27 May 2021 across all Victoria for 7 days. Fortunately, the quarry industry and associated suppliers are allowed to operate under COVID-19 safe plans (see https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/authorised-provider-and-authorised-worker-list).

Compliance with these plans is vital to enable our industry to remain open and safe. No worker permit has been required at this time of writing. The Secretariat has ensured that relevant information is made available and has fielded a number of calls from Voting Members.

With the new financial year (from 1 July 2021) fast approaching, a number of new legislative and regulatory requirements come into effect, notwithstanding CMPA’s efforts to minimise their impacts on the quarry industry.

Environment Protection Act 2017: This new Act impacts ALL Victorians whether they are at work or at home. For the quarry industry a Guideline has been made available with the prime responsibilities detailed on page 16.

Additionally, on page 36, the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) provides links to questions on waste and recycling under the new regime.

Statutory reporting: Annual returns are due and are to include resource estimates to enable a better understanding of the replenishment of supply of construction materials (see page 13.). Detailed information on the requirements will be available shortly (hopefully) from Earth Resources Regulation (ERR).

Rehabilitation plans: A new rehabilitation plan guideline for Victoria’s quarries is now available on www.earthresources.vic.gov.au. Developed in consultation with industry (unfortunately not many comments made by CMPA were taken into account), the guideline outlines how to prepare a rehabilitation plan in line with new requirements and provides templates and examples.

The new rehabilitation requirements will apply to new work plans and all work plan variations lodged on or after 1 July 2021.
Further templates and examples will be developed by ERR over
the coming months.

Stay safe.

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