Post-mining Land Use: It's Time to Get Serious About Repurposing
Tracks
Plenary 1
| Wednesday, July 23, 2025 |
| 3:40 PM - 4:00 PM |
| Plenary One |
Overview
Jillian D'Urso, Cooperative Research Centre For Transformations In Mining Economies
Speaker
Jillian D'Urso
External Relations And Impact Director
Cooperative Research Centre For Transformations In Mining Economies
Post-mining Land Use: It's Time to Get Serious About Repurposing
Presentation Overview
Globally, there are many examples of mine land and infrastructure being repurposed for new or complementary issues, including tourism, biodiversity conservation, energy generation, waste reprocessing and transportation.
And, while positive examples are emerging, there is a risk Northern Australia will miss out on a wave of opportunities to unlock new value from existing assets unless active steps are taken to identify, assess and build the case for repurposing as a number of major mines actively or plan for closure.
This presentation will set outline why it is time to get serious about repurposing.
It will explore leading research as well as analysis by the Productivity Commission and other bodies, signposting areas for policy, regulatory and commercial consideration. Ways of balancing tensions between repurposing and land restoration will also be explored, including progress in Nature Capital Accounting exploration.
Finally, the role of collaborative planning in identifying viable, feasible and desirable options will be explored, highlighting lessons from the Latrobe Valley and other regions in transition.
And, while positive examples are emerging, there is a risk Northern Australia will miss out on a wave of opportunities to unlock new value from existing assets unless active steps are taken to identify, assess and build the case for repurposing as a number of major mines actively or plan for closure.
This presentation will set outline why it is time to get serious about repurposing.
It will explore leading research as well as analysis by the Productivity Commission and other bodies, signposting areas for policy, regulatory and commercial consideration. Ways of balancing tensions between repurposing and land restoration will also be explored, including progress in Nature Capital Accounting exploration.
Finally, the role of collaborative planning in identifying viable, feasible and desirable options will be explored, highlighting lessons from the Latrobe Valley and other regions in transition.
Biography
Jillian is a stakeholder engagement, public policy and corporate affairs professional with almost two decades of experience across the mining industry, industry advocacy and state government.
In her current role, Jillian works with CRC TiME partners across Australia to help support new ways of approaching post-mine transitions.
Jillian has qualifications in communications, governance and public policy and ESG. She is an Australian Rural Leadership Program Graduate and serves as an Ambassador for Aboriginal Enterprises in Mining, Energy and Exploration.
