AMEC calls for Victorian resources reset as Jaclyn Symes returns to portfolio
The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) has called for a renewed focus on Victoria’s exploration and mining sector following the appointment of Jaclyn Symes as minister overseeing resources.
Symes, who previously served as Victoria’s resources minister from November 2018 to August 2021, has returned to the portfolio following an announcement from Victoria’s new Premier Ben Carroll, while also taking responsibility for the State Electricity Commission, Climate Action and Environment.
In the statement, Carroll’s new-look Cabinet has been described as “experienced and united”.
AMEC welcomed the appointment but said immediate action was needed to address what it described as years of limited progress for the state’s resources industry.
AMEC chief executive officer Warren Pearce said the appointment should represent a change in direction for Victorian resources policy.
“This appointment must mark a decisive change in direction for Victoria’s resources policy,” Pearce said in a statement.
“Victoria’s exploration and mining industry has been treated as an afterthought for far too long.”
Pearce said the sector had lacked a clear agenda to attract investment, accelerate mineral discoveries and support new projects moving into production.
He said opportunities had been lost and investor confidence had weakened compared with other Australian jurisdictions competing for resources investment.
AMEC also acknowledged the appointment of new premier Ben Carroll and Colin Brooks as Victoria’s new treasurer, saying the leadership changes provided an opportunity for a stronger focus on the resources sector.
“With new leadership, there is the opportunity to make big changes, and nothing less will suffice,” Pearce said.
AMEC said it would release its 2026 Victorian Election Platform ahead of the state election, outlining policy priorities aimed at accelerating mineral discoveries and supporting project development.
The organisation said the platform will be shared with government and opposition representatives and will focus on measures designed to deliver benefits for investors and the Victorian community.
AMEC said it hopes the new leadership team will help strengthen recognition of the exploration and mining industry’s role in Victoria’s future economic development.