Mineral Sands Mine Near Horsham Granted 20-Year Licence by Victorian Regulator
A 20-year licence has been granted for a mineral sands mine near Horsham, despite opposition from residents and the local council. The mine is expected to support 1,000 full-time local jobs and provide a $40 million community benefit fund.
Victoria's mining regulator has granted a 20-year licence for a contentious mineral sands mine near Horsham in Victoria's west. The licence was granted to the WIM Resource Avonbank project in Dooen, 15 kilometres north-east of Horsham.
The mine site will cover about 3,400 hectares, with the company planning to mine around the clock for materials used in everyday technology and renewable energy infrastructure. The project aims to dig up 12.75 million tonnes of heavy mineral concentrate, including zircon, titanium and rare earth elements.
The company, backed by Chinese investors, said construction could begin late next year, with mining starting in 2029, pending finances and other construction and environmental approvals. The mine is expected to operate for 36 years.