East Gippsland Shire Council is aware from recent media reports that Gippsland Critical Minerals (formerly Kalbar Resources) has been rescoping the Fingerboards mineral sands mine project.

This is after the assessment by the then Minister for Planning in November 2021 found that the project would have unacceptable environmental effects. This was based on the Environmental Effects Statement and independent advisory committee hearing.

The Minister’s assessment validated the adopted position of Council in relation to this project.

Council has not met with Gippsland Critical Minerals about its work on providing additional information and more detailed processes to address issues raised in the Minister’s assessment.

Any new proposal will be considered on its merits and based on the information available at the time and consistent with Council’s role and legislative responsibilities.

Earth Resources Regulation is the primary regulator responsible for approval and regulation of mines.

- Mayor Cr Mark Reeves