About permits and Commonwealth Reserve approvals
When seeking environmental approval to undertake a mining or petroleum activity, there are some instances where a general environmental approval or clearance under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 does not completely cover the activity.
In such instances, an additional permit or approval is required.
These instances include:
- interactions with cetaceans
When an action may interfere with cetaceans—such as whales, dolphins and porpoises—a Commonwealth permit is required.
- action within a Commonwealth Reserve
If an action is to be undertaken within a Commonwealth Reserve, Commonwealth Reserve approval is required. Most Commonwealth Reserves allow uses that are consistent with the management plan in operation for the reserve, which may include exploration and production of petroleum. Approval requires assessment of the action proposed against the management plan in effect, with a recommendation going to the Governor-General.
More information
For more information about environmental approvals see
Environmental approvals processes.