The government will provide financial support to priority junior exploration and mining companies with market capitalisations of less than $50 million to attend Melbourne’s IMARC, which, in its second year, is a key fixture on the global mining calendar and the leading conference for the Asia Pacific region.

Companies that are registered and based in Victoria will get up to $1500 towards exhibiting at IMARC. For interstate companies operating in Victoria and elsewhere, up to $2000 will be provided towards exhibiting at IMARC.

The show is expected to attract more than 3000 attendees from more than 35 countries.

“Oil and gas explorers are eligible to apply for funding but top priority will be given to mining companies registered or operating in Victoria,” a Victoria Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources spokesman told Energy News.

The resources sector is a global driver for many of the government’s priority sectors including professional services, advanced manufacturing and international education.

Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said that through the funding initiative, the government was giving junior explorers and miners the “unique opportunity to gain exposure to IMARC and professionally present their new project to potential investors”