57QException to section 57P

57Q Exception to section 57P

Despite section 57P(2), the Minister may grant a special drilling authorisation in respect of an area that is the subject of a primary authorisation held by a current authority holder who is not the applicant without the consent of that holder if—

(a) the Minister—

(i) notifies that holder in writing that the Minister is proposing to exercise the Minister's powers under this section, and of the reasons why the Minister is proposing to do so; and

(ii) gives that holder 28 days to make any submissions it wishes in relation to the proposal; and

(b) the Minister considers any submissions made in response to the notice and also takes into account any commercial consequences to that holder that may be likely if the authorisation is granted.

S. 57R inserted by No. 64/2012 s. 4.