Exploration permit for minerals or coal
Rent reduction for minerals exploration
The rent reduction for exploration permits for minerals (EPMs) announced under the Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy commences on 1 September 2023 and ends on 31 August 2028.
Current invoices remain due and payable.
Read more information about Zero rent for exploration permits for minerals.
Exploration permits allow you to use more advanced exploration methods to determine the quantity and quality of minerals present. Different exploration permits are required for minerals and for coal.
Permitted activities
An exploration permit allows you to prospect, conduct geophysical surveys, drilling, and sampling and testing of materials.
Environmental authorities
An environmental authority may not be required if your activities meet the criteria for a small-scale mining activity.
Native title
Any native title requirements will need to be addressed before we grant an authority.
Main features of exploration permits
| Feature | Exploration permit minerals (EPM) | Exploration permit coal (EPC) |
|---|---|---|
| Specified mineral | Any mineral other than coal | Coal |
| Duration | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
| Size* | 100 sub-blocks | Tender related: EPC project related: |
| Renewable | Yes | Yes |
| Rent | {{ pass_35327 }} from 1 September 2023 to 31 August 2028 | Per sub-block: {{ pass_35327 }} |
| Application fee |
Max. 4 sub-blocks in restricted areas 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264 or 265: {{ pass_35269 }} Other: {{ pass_35270 }} | &{{ pass_35268 }} |
*Other size restrictions may apply in restricted areas or due to specific legislative requirements
Conditional surrender
In some cases (e.g. to consolidate adjacent authorities), you may conditionally surrender your authority in favour of a new one to include the whole or part of the land. If you apply for a conditional surrender, the existing authority will remain in force until your new application is decided. If your application is successful, the surrender will take effect immediately prior to the grant of the new authority.
How to apply
EPM
You can apply online through MyMinesOnline or using a hard-copy form. You can also apply through a call for tenders.
EPC
You can apply using a hard-copy form or a call for tenders.
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.