Yallourn mine inquiries commence

Two government inquiries have begun into last November's Yallourn mine collapse.

On 14 November the northern wall of TRUenergy's Yallourn mine collapsed, resulting in the Latrobe River flowing directly into the open cut mine until a diversion was installed to direct water back along the river course.

The Minister for Energy and Resources, Peter Batchelor, said the inquiries would separately investigate the facts and causes of what occurred and compliance with mining licence obligations.

"This was a major incident resulting in potentially significant environmental impacts and while no-one was hurt, we need to ensure the highest safety standards across the industry are in place," Batchelor said.

"It is crucial that we understand what caused this incident, so that we can prevent further incidents of this kind.

"Achieving maximum safety and protecting the environment during mining activities is a top priority for this Government, and I know it is also a top priority for the industry."

Batchelor said the first investigation by Department of Primary Industries (DPI) inspectors into TRUenergy's performance against their mining licence obligations had commenced.

He said a second inquiry into the causes of the mine wall collapse was expected to begin early this year and would be independently conducted by a person with specialist expertise, who would be appointed as Mining Warden by the Governor in Council.

"A Mining Warden, however, has broader powers of investigation including the ability to enter any land, summons a person to give evidence on oath and require the production of documents," he said.

"By setting up this second inquiry we are making sure that all the facts can be thoroughly investigated independently of government. The DPI investigation team will cooperate fully with the mining warden's investigation."

The investigations are expected to be completed by mid year.