Applying for Mining Leases in NSW

Securing a valid Mining Lease is critical to the success of any proposed mining operation so it’s equally important that proponents get the Mining Lease Application process right to ensure the security of tenure. The process involves a number of steps and various components that allow the decision-maker to grant the Mining Leases and it is critical that each of these components is provided to ensure that the application is valid.

Some of the things an applicant needs to consider before lodging an Mining Lease Application in NSW include:

• The minerals being sought under the Mining Lease.
• The status of any ancillary approvals for the Mining Lease, including Development Consents, Environmental Protection Licences and Water Licences.
• The proposed activities and mine plan under the Mining Lease.
• The status of the underlying land tenure and whether there might be any impediments to grant of the Mining Lease, including Native Title.
• Existing relationships with underlying and surrounding landholders and the possibility of objection to the Mining Lease.

Once a Mining Application has been lodged the applicant will be required to complete a number of additional steps prior to grant, including publication of advertisements, service of notices and payment of any prescribed fees.

Once granted it is important that the holder of the Mining Lease becomes familiar with the conditions of the Mining Lease and the associated regulatory framework, including statutory requirements, additional approvals and various Government policies and guidelines.

Hetherington provide expert advice to guide clients throughout the entire Mining Lease Application process from lodgement of the application, towards the successful grant of a Mining Lease and we are experienced in navigating the regulatory framework for Mining Leases and associated approvals in NSW.