Prospectors & Miners Association of Victoria (PMAV)

The Prospectors and Miners Association of Victoria (PMAV) is a voluntary organisation established in 1980 to represent and protect the interests of prospectors, fossickers and miners throughout Victoria. With a strong connection to Victoria’s historic goldfields, the association promotes responsible prospecting while supporting continued access to suitable public forests and Crown land.

The PMAV was formed at a time when access to traditional prospecting areas was increasingly under threat. Its inaugural meeting in Castlemaine attracted more than 900 prospectors, demonstrating the importance of recreational prospecting and Victoria’s gold mining heritage to communities across the state.

Today, the association works to uphold the rights and privileges of Victorian Miner’s Right holders and represents its members on matters relating to fossicking, prospecting, mining and land access. The PMAV engages with government, Members of Parliament, statutory authorities and local government while providing information, support and guidance to its membership.

Education, responsible prospecting and respect for Victoria’s goldfield heritage are central to the organisation. Through its network of branches across Victoria, members can participate in field trips, social activities, guest presentations and practical opportunities to develop their prospecting knowledge and skills.

Whether prospecting is a family activity, recreational hobby, connection to Australia’s gold mining heritage or a serious pursuit, the PMAV provides a community for people who share an interest in discovering Victoria’s goldfields while helping preserve access for future generations.