Global tender opens to explore North West Queensland

Mineral explorers from around the globe are being invited to compete to explore the world’s richest base metal region - Queensland’s North West Minerals Province.  

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said tenders would open this Friday for exploration of 102 square kilometres in the North West Minerals Province, with the potential for copper, gold, lead and zinc.

“Queensland is one of the world’s leading destinations for mining and resources investment, and exploration is the first step towards future jobs and regional economic development,” Dr Lynham said.

 “Friday’s tender is a dual first for Queensland: the first land release in Queensland’s first annual exploration program.  

“The successful tenderer will to be required to meet environmental conditions and negotiate land access and compensation agreements with landholders, including any relevant native title, before on-ground exploration can commence.”

Tenders close 2 February 2017 and a decision is expected in the first half of 2017.

The inaugural exploration program was released in July. It also includes 451 sq km for petroleum and gas exploration near Surat and Injune to be released by the end of the year, and 273 sq km for coal exploration between Middlemount and Blackwater in the Bowen Basin in April 2017. 

Dr Lynham said the exploration forward plan provided certainty and opportunity to industry, investors and local communities.

“An annual forward program will allow resources explorers and miners to plan ahead for future opportunities,” Dr Lynham said. 

“It’s critical that we continue to encourage exploration and foster the green shoots of investment appearing in the resources sector.

“Our exploration concessions provide a 50 per cent expenditure concession for mineral and coal explorers and as of 1 September, explorers are expected to receive more than $30 million in financial relief over the next two years.”

ENDS             13 September, 2016

Media inquiries:        Jan Martin     0439 341 314

Eds: Maps and exploration images available for download at https://www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/our-department/media-centre/media-resources