You may need this consent if you intend to explore for minerals in NSW offshore areas. The consent will authorise you to explore for or recover minerals for the following purposes:
- scientific investigation
- a reconnaissance survey
- the collection of small amounts of minerals.
A reconnaissance survey is the exploration of an area to determine whether the area is sufficiently promising to justify more detailed exploration.
A special purpose consent may be granted over a standard block, reserved block or tender block, even if the area is already subject to an existing consent. Please note that a consent is different from an offshore exploration, mining or retention licence, as it does not give you any exclusive rights over an area, nor does it give you any preference in applications for licences over the area.
NSW's offshore area extends to three nautical miles from the coastal baseline. If you intend to undertake exploration activities outside this area, you will need to apply for a licence under Commonwealth legislation.
