The International Mining for Development Centre (IM4DC) invites applications for its 2014 masterclass and learning program on Resource Governance. The program will involve a group of up to 20 representatives from governments, civil society organisations and academic institutions from developing countries. The program will include participation in the AusIMM’s Life of Mine Conference, the opportunity to interact with other IM4DC participants and alumni and a field trip to a mining region in Australia.

The program will be held in Brisbane, Queensland. It will run from Monday 30 June to Friday 25 July 2014.

Program

The masterclass will provide an understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of governance in the resources sector.  It will address principles of policy and regulatory frameworks in key areas across the life cycle of mining operations from exploration through to closure, and also the role of various stakeholder groups in governance arrangements in local, national and international contexts. The program will allow participants to share experiences with their peers and a range of expert presenters.

During the third week, participants will attend an alumni forum and the AusIMM Life of Mine 2014 Conference. These events will provide the opportunity to explore broader aspects of governance of resource projects.

Participants will be expected to develop a Return to Work (RTW) plan for further activity beyond the program.

Objectives

The program will provide participants with:

  • Increased knowledge of the principles and frameworks relevant to the governance of resource developments
  • Improved understanding of the roles of different stakeholders in governance processes.

Core topics

  • Mining laws and licensing regimes
  • Management of geological information
  • Regulation of exploration
  • Health and safety regulation and oversight
  • Environmental Regulation and monitoring (from new mines through to closure and legacy sites)
  • Social impact management & community agreements
  • Transparency and anti-corruption
  • The role of local and regional government.

Who should attend?

The program is designed for mid-level to senior personnel in government, civil society organisations and universities engaged in various aspects of the governance and analysis of resource sectors in their countries and regions.

 A high level of English proficiency is required. The program will be conducted in English, and will include group exercises and interaction with various stakeholders during presentations and field trips. Given the range of nationalities involved it is not feasible to provide translation services.

Faculty

The program will be delivered by senior personnel from The University of Queensland (UQ) participating as lecturers and facilitators. The program convenor is Professor David Brereton, Deputy Director of the UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI), supported by Dr Daniel Franks and Dr Kathryn Sturman of SMI’s Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining (CSRM). They will be joined by a range of guest presenters and discussants. 

Sponsorship

IM4DC will fund the costs for participants from government agencies, civil society organisations and the university sector including tuition fees, return economy airfares, transport costs in Australia, conference fees, accommodation and meals for the duration of the tour. Further details regarding precise travel dates and arrangements will be provided, once participant details are confirmed.

Selection

To be eligible for the short course, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Mid to senior level professional working in a role related to regional development in the mining sector
  • Employment in either a university, training agency, mining institution, ministry, government agency, or civil society
  • At least five years-experience working in the sector
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Not married to/or a de facto of, or engaged to be married to, a person who holds or is eligible to hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
  • Satisfactory English language proficiency.

Applications which meet these criteria will be assessed against a range of criteria which include the quality of the submission on expectations and implementation, and alignment with the Australian Aid program priorities. Final selection will allow for the need to achieve diversity amongst the participants.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted using the online form. You will be required to attach a copy of your passport and a signed endorsement from your employer.  to submit an application, applications may be started and saved so that you can complete them at a later time.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Sunday 13 April 2014

Further information: