Victorian Minister for Resources Jaclyn Symes announced guidelines that would set a higher standard on explorers and miners who have to prove they can be trusted with state-owned minerals.

The changes will be applied in the assessment process determining potential licensees for the forthcoming Stavely Ground release in western Victoria and the Lockington Ground release in northern Victoria later in the year.

With 120,000 people working in Victoria's mining industry the government is keen to get the best workers it can.

The assessment guidelines will take into account a relevant company's track record including the form of directors and executives in licensing decisions.

The government believes this will make it easier for the right people and companies to apply.

Through the guidelines farmers and communities should be better assured that public safety, infrastructure and the environment will be protected from mining or exploration.

Symes said they were raising the bar to make sure the mining sector employed the most qualified and reputable people to access the state's mineral resources with a strong focus on supporting the communities they worked in.