Mineral development licence
A mineral development licence (MDL) is issued so that you can evaluate the development potential of the defined resource. An MDL can be granted if you hold an exploration permit where there is a significant mineral occurrence of possible economic potential.
Permitted activities
The MDL allows you to conduct geoscientific programs (e.g. drilling, seismic surveys), mining feasibility studies, metallurgical testing and marketing, and environmental, engineering and design studies.
Environmental authorities
Before we grant a resource authority you will require the appropriate environmental authority.
Native title
Any native title requirements will need to be addressed before we grant an authority.
Main features of MDLs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Specified mineral | Any mineral |
| Prerequisite authority | Exploration permit over the area |
| Duration | Up to 5 years |
| Size | No size restriction |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Rent | |
| Application fee | Coal: {{ pass_35277 }} Other: {{ pass_35278 }} |
How to apply
You can apply online through MyMinesOnline or using a hard-copy form.
Also consider...
- Read our guide to the application process for resource authorities for general information about lodging an application.
- Find out how to comply with your resource authority and the land access code.