The Andrews Labor Government will defer its decision regarding Mantle Mining’s application to renew exploration licence EL5294 while the government’s coal policy is being developed.
It would be unfair to both the company and the Bacchus Marsh community to make a decision at this point in time.
The Labor Government's coal policy will be released for public feedback by the end of 2016.
The policy will incorporate the findings of the Government’s independent review of coal programs, currently being undertaken by Mr Rhys Edwards.
In the meantime, the exploration licence covering Bacchus Marsh will be held in abeyance by the Victorian Government.
This means the licence is still held by the company but in a suspended state.
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“It would be unfair to both the company and local community to make a decision while the review of coal programs and the development of the government’s coal policy is underway.”
Quote attributable to Member for Melton Don Nardella
“I’ve been in regular contact with the community about this issue, including the Moorabool Environment Group and local residents, and will continue to keep them informed throughout the process.”
Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“EL5294 covers a large area, including Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat, and it’s important that these local communities and industry have certainty going forward, which the new coal policy will provide.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020