Guideline for preparing a review of environmental factors

Download Exploration guideline: Application and assessment process for exploration activities (PDF, 1.14 MB)

The NSW Resources Regulator, within the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, is responsible for the administration of authorisations under the Mining Act 1992 and petroleum titles under the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991. Authorisations include exploration licences, assessment leases, mining leases, mineral claims and opal prospecting licences. Petroleum titles include exploration licences, assessment leases and production leases.

In order to assess these impacts, the department may require the title holder to prepare a review of environmental factors (REF), an environmental impact statement (EIS), and/or a species impact statement (SIS).

This guideline has been developed to assist industry prepare a REF, EIS, SIS or other documentation to support an application for approval to carry out prospecting operations (exploration).