Environmental, social and governance (ESG) expectations for the Australian mining sector are rapidly evolving. From investors and Indigenous communities to regulators and downstream buyers, stakeholders demand credible, measurable and transparent sustainability performance.
Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) is a globally recognized, mining sustainability program adopted by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA). The Framework supports the mining industry in managing key environmental and social risks, creating value for stakeholders and broader society.
As an approved third-party verifier, we offer independent verification services to help mining companies meet the requirements of the TSM framework. Our sustainability experts support the Australian mining industry to verify responsible mining practices and enable MCA members to meet mandatory TSM obligations, while strengthening overall ESG performance and stakeholder trust.
Discover the benefits of our TSM verification service
- Demonstrate ESG LeadershipMeet mandatory MCA requirements while showcasing your commitment to transparent and responsible mining practices.
- Strengthen your license to operateReinforce trust with communities, regulators, investors and Indigenous stakeholders through independent third-party verification under TSM.
- Prepare for global ESG expectationsTSM alignment supports broader ESG disclosure frameworks such as TCFD, ASRS, ISSB and ICMM principles – helping future-proof your sustainability strategy.
- Identify opportunities for improvementOur audit process provides actionable insights to enhance your performance across key areas, such as tailings, energy, biodiversity, safety and indigenous engagement.
- Benchmark against industry best practiceCompare performance across sites and against peers, driving continuous improvement and sector leadership.

Why SGS?
As the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, we combine in-depth industry knowledge with proven expertise and expert auditors across Australia. Our unrivalled experience in sustainability verification, ESG assurance, circularity, climate and nature delivers credible, third-party verification across all TSM protocols.
We are formally recognized to conduct TSM audits as part of the MCA Enduring Value framework – ensuring alignment with Australian industry expectations through a full suite of services across all nine TSM protocols. From smelters to open-cut mines, we bring deep sector knowledge across zinc, copper, coal, gold, and critical minerals operations. As a globally respected third-party auditor, we bring objective credibility to your TSM performance ratings, helping you stand up to public, investor and supply chain scrutiny.