Review of Legislation

The Victorian Government is conducting a major review of the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act. This is the Act that gives us the right to prospect and mine.

Government is planning to introduce some amendments to the Act shortly and a second round after the state election later this year.

We know that there are proposals to alter the Miners Right and are waiting anxiously for Government to reveal these proposals.

The Miners Right is at the very core of prospecting in Victoria and we will vehemently oppose any attempts to undermine its strength.


Memorandum of Co-operation

Heritage Legislation in Victoria prohibits the disturbance of any item that is 50 years old or more. This means that, theoretically, when a prospector finds an old nail, bit of wire or coin etc, we are supposed to put it back in the ground.

We are currently in negotiation with Heritage Victoria in the hope of producing a Memorandum of Co-operation which would allow prospectors to retain custodianship of any items uncovered whilst detecting for gold.


Prospectors Guide

In conjunction with Parks Victoria, DPI and the Victorian Gem Clubs we are reviewing the Prospectors Guide that is handed out with Miners Rights.

This document has served well but is in major need of updating.


State Election

The PMAV treats election years as a serious opportunity to advance opportunities available to members. While there may be some lack of faith in political promises, we have managed to achieve change in the past and will be campaigning again before November’s election.


30 Year Anniversary

The PMAV is 30 this year and we are holding a celebratory dinner in Castlemaine on 4th September, to be followed by our AGM on the 5th.

Members will receive their invitations in the mail shortly.

We also invite comment on the problems that face the individual fossicker, prospector or miner in addition to feedback relating to the current issues via email at   This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .