151Existing permits and leases continue until renewal applications etc. decided

151 Existing permits and leases continue until renewal applications etc. decided

(a) an application is made for—

(i) the renewal of an exploration permit; or

(ii) a retention lease in respect of an area held under an exploration permit; or

(iii) an injection and monitoring licence in respect of an area held under a retention lease or an exploration permit; and

(b) the application has not been determined at the time the original permit or lease is due to expire.

(2) The original permit or lease continues in force until the first of these events occurs—

(a) the Minister gives the applicant a written notice stating that he or she refuses to grant the application; or

(b) if the application is granted, the lease, licence or new permit takes effect; or

(c) the application is withdrawn or lapses.

(3) If the application is not made in respect of exactly the same area to which the original permit or lease applies, subsection (2) only applies to the area that is common to the original permit or lease and the area in respect of which the application is made.

Division 2—Community consultation