You may need this authority if you intend to explore for petroleum in Tasmanian coastal waters. Tasmanian coastal waters extend for three nautical miles from the coastline of Tasmania. If you intend to undertake exploration activities outside this area, you will need to apply for a licence under the appropriate Act.
A special prospecting authority is used to authorise the holder to undertake specified petroleum exploration operations in particular blocks. It may be granted over blocks which are not subject to a permit, lease or licence. It does not authorise the holder to make a well.
A special prospecting authority is not exclusive. Multiple special prospecting authorities may be granted over the same block.
