Thanks for the feedback.
I have been able to setup the Mini through the normal process. It shows up in the Home app, and I can access it from there without issue.
It does not show up as a Home hub and it does not allow me to access the Automation menu or Remote access.
Have tried to reset it, remove it and start afresh with a new home, but I am yet to have any success in the mini functioning as a hub or allowing remote access or Automation.
I am signed in with my iCloud and the mini does appear there as a device, currently updated to v14.4.
Not sure where else to seek assistance as there are no service centers remotely near my location.
I specifically bought the mini for these functions and am not sure if this is a common problem that is being worked on.