An exploration permit for coal may only be applied for through a competitive tender process. In the case of highly prospective coal areas, the tender will have a cash bidding component.
You can obtain this permit by submitting a completed tender application through the Queensland Government QTenders website.
If the tender includes a cash bidding component, the applicant must submit a cash bid with the application.
The latest version of the application forms can be downloaded from the department website or by contacting your regional or Brisbane district office of the Department.
The following documents must be submitted with the application:
- proposed work program of exploration and advice on how the program will be carried out
- a statement specifying the estimated human, technical and financial resources proposed to be committed to during each year of the permit
- statement of financial position and available technical resources
- numbers and qualifications of professional and other staff responsible for planning, conducting and reporting for each year of the program
- a statement about how and when consultation with each owner and occupier or private and public land will be or are likely to be carried out
- permit holders are required to have an environmental authority unless the area they apply for is 4 sub-blocks or less. Applicants must complete an EA form and attach supporting documentation. This form and supporting documentation must be submitted with your permit application.
Further information about your application for an exploration permit may be obtained by reading the mineral and coal exploration guideline which can be downloaded at the Department's website.
Any person interested in obtaining mining tenure is advised to contact the relevant mining registrar or departmental staff for further information before lodging any application.
You must lodge a financial assurance and accept terms and conditions before approval is granted. Compliance with the native title process is also required.
