JORC Code 2012 vs the Upcoming Update: What Mining Reporters Need to Know

The JORC Code, formally the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, is published by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee. The current binding edition is JORC 2012, and it governs all public reporting by ASX-listed miners and explorers.

JORC 2012 requires that exploration results, mineral resources, and ore reserves be reported by, or under the supervision of, a Competent Person. A CP must be a member or fellow of AusIMM, AIG, or a recognised overseas professional body, with at least five years of relevant experience for the style of mineralisation and the type of activity being undertaken.

The Code's Table 1 is where most of the inspection burden lives. Table 1 requires explicit disclosure of sampling techniques, drilling methods, sample recovery, logging, sub-sampling and sample preparation, quality of assay data and laboratory tests, verification of sampling and assaying, location of data points, data spacing and distribution, orientation of data, sample security, and audits or reviews.

A new edition of the JORC Code has been under industry consultation. Reporters should track its progress and prepare to update internal procedures once it is published, particularly around digital evidence and ESG disclosures.