Mining in the NT
Mining is the process of extracting useful materials from the ground.
Minerals and extractive minerals are natural raw materials extracted for commercial use. They are used in many everyday items such as cars, roads, appliances and building materials.
Minerals and extractive minerals are found in deposits throughout the world.
Exploration is carried out to find large deposits of minerals and extractive minerals suitable for commercial extraction. Exploration is carried out through various activities.
Mining activities
A mining activity includes all of the following:
- exploration for minerals
- mining of minerals
- processing of minerals, tailings, spoil heaps or waste dumps
- decommissioning or rehabilitation of a mining site
- operations and works in connection with the above activities, including all of the following:
- the removal, handling, transport and storage of minerals, substances, contaminants and waste
- the construction, operation, maintenance and removal of plant and buildings
- operations for the care and maintenance of a mining site when an above activity is suspended.
For a full definition of mining activity, read the Mining Management Act 2001.
Minerals in the NT
The Northern Territory (NT) has some of Australia's largest deposits of minerals including uranium, zinc-lead, bauxite and gold.
To find out more about minerals in the NT, go to the Resourcing the Territory website.
In addition, fossickers have unearthed a variety of gems and minerals in the NT. Read more on the Fossicking website.
Mining operations
Mining has been a major industry for the NT for more than 150 years.
There are 8 major operating mines, with additional smaller mines in operation.
See authorised mining sites and mining management plans and reports.
How mining is regulated
Mining in the NT is regulated through the Mineral Titles Act 2010 and Mining Management Act 2001, along with other related laws and rules.
This is to ensure decisions are made in a responsible and sustainable way.
Who's involved
The mining industry involves different government and non-government stakeholders.
The following government agencies and authorities make planning decisions and enforce rules:
- Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade
- Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security
- NT Environment Protection Authority.
Non-government stakeholders include:
- landholders
- land councils
- community groups
- members of the public.
Mineral titles and authorisation
The NT Government owns all minerals and extractive minerals in the NT except uranium. This belongs to the Australian Government.
Any company that wants to explore for or mine minerals or extractive mineral must apply for a licence, lease or a permit (mineral title).
There are different types of mineral titles available in the NT.
Each one allows certain things to occur at different stages of the exploration and mining process.
Once a mineral title has been granted, you need a separate mining authorisation for mining activities that are likely to cause substantial disturbance of the ground.
Contact
If you have any questions, contact the Mines branch.