Mining Jobs in Victoria

Victoria's mining industry is experiencing a resurgence, led by underground gold mining in the state's historic goldfields. While smaller than WA or Queensland, Victoria offers mining careers with the advantage of residential living in regional towns rather than remote FIFO camps.

Key Mining Regions in VIC

The Ballarat and Bendigo goldfields in central Victoria are home to deep underground gold mines that have operated for over 150 years. Kirkland Lake Gold's Fosterville mine near Bendigo has been one of Australia's highest-grade gold operations. The Stawell region in western Victoria supports underground gold mining. The Latrobe Valley in Gippsland has brown coal operations supplying power generation, while mineral sands operations are found in the state's west and north-west.

Common Roles and FIFO Arrangements

A key advantage of Victorian mining jobs is the availability of residential positions. Many underground gold mines near Ballarat, Bendigo and Stawell allow workers to live locally in town rather than on a FIFO roster. This makes Victoria attractive for miners seeking a better work-life balance. Common roles include underground truck drivers, nippers, bogger operators, jumbo operators, maintenance fitters and electricians. Some positions offer drive-in drive-out arrangements from Melbourne or Geelong.

Major Employers

Major Victorian mining employers include Agnico Eagle (Fosterville gold mine near Bendigo), Navarre Minerals and Stawell Gold Mines. Underground contracting companies including Barminco and Pybar service the state's gold operations. The brown coal sector in the Latrobe Valley is operated by Energy Australia and other power generators. Victoria's mining sector is supported by a strong METS (mining equipment, technology and services) industry based in Melbourne.