Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021

The Resources and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 was introduced into the Queensland Parliament on 16 June 2021 and was passed on 13 October 2021. It includes a number of amendments that will provide certainty to resource authority holders and ensure existing rights and interests are maintained.

Legal standing of historical leases

The Bill contained amendments clarify the legal standing of certain leases approved between 1989 to 2010 under the Mineral Resources Act 1989. The amendments clarify that leases issued without an instrument of lease are valid and have always been valid.

Expiry of authorities to prospect (ATPs)

The Bill also defers the expiry of existing authorities to prospect (ATPs) that are subject to production lease applications.

This would mean ATPs due to expire on 1 November 2021 remain valid until a decision is made on the lease applications.

Renewal of production leases

The Bill also included amendments to ensure that, if a company has made a valid application to renew a production lease under the Petroleum Act 1923 before the lease expires, it will remain in force beyond its expiry date until a decision is made on the renewal.

These amendments do not provide any additional rights or entitlements. They simply provide additional time for a decision to be made.

Last updated

19 February 2024

Last reviewed

21 February 2023