This regulation sets detailed procedural, technical and reporting rules for holders of greenhouse‑gas (GHG) permits, leases and related authorities. It prescribes what must be included in work and development plans, test plans, well and survey notices, routine and end‑of‑tenure reports, sample retention, confidentiality periods and the formats for delivering data to the chief executive.
It also fixes annual rents, fees, prescribed forms of security and an interest rate, and repeals the 2010 regulation. The direct effects fall on GHG tenure holders, who must collect, retain and supply specified technical data, pay charges and meet strict timelines and electronic submission rules.
This regulation prescribes the detailed, technical and administrative requirements that attach to greenhouse gas (GHG) authorities under the principal Act. It operationalises multiple Act provisions by specifying the content of work programs, development plans, test plans, site plans, notices, reports, sample‑keeping, confidentiality periods, payment mechanics and financial securities. The regulation does not create new classes of tenure; it sets out what holders of GHG permits, GHG leases, GHG data acquisition authorities and related tenures must provide to the chief executive and how certain transactions must be effected.
Mechanically, the instrument does the following (selective, statute‑based list):
Prescribes key matters to be included in a proposed initial work program (geological model, assessment of storage potential, rationale for proposed activities) and in proposed initial development plans (conflicts with other resource authorities; detailed infrastructure descriptions) (s.3, s.4).
Specifies the information required in site plans for GHG stream storage sites, including a register of intersecting petroleum wells and water bores and mitigation of impacts on them (s.5).
Requires test plans for injection testing to include precise operational information: where and how testing will occur, substance composition, volumes and rates, expected migration pathways, monitoring techniques and a risk assessment with mitigation measures (s.6).
Details a suite of mandatory reports and their timing: daily drilling reports, well completion and abandonment reports, seismic and scientific survey reports, injection testing reports, 6‑monthly storage capacity and injection reports, and end‑of‑tenure or relinquishment reports, together with required content for each (s.15-s.23, s.7-s.9, s.18-s.19).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2021.
59
pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This regulation may be cited as the Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2021 .
sec.2
Definitions
sec.2 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 3 defines particular words used in this regulation.
pt.2
Requirements for work programs and development plans
Requirements for work programs and development plans
sec.3
Matters for proposed initial work programs
sec.3 Matters for proposed initial work programs
For section 53 (1) (g) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed—
a description of the geological model for the area of the proposed GHG permit;
an assessment of the potential for the discovery of a GHG storage site in the area of the proposed GHG permit;
the rationale, in relation to the geological model for the area, for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed GHG permit.
(a) a description of the geological model for the area of the proposed GHG permit;
(b) an assessment of the potential for the discovery of a GHG storage site in the area of the proposed GHG permit;
(c) the rationale, in relation to the geological model for the area, for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed GHG permit.
sec.4
Matters for proposed initial development plans
sec.4 Matters for proposed initial development plans
For section 141 (1) (g) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed—
any likely conflict between an authorised activity to be carried out under the proposed GHG lease and another authorised activity carried out under an authority, however called, under another resource Act;
details, including the location, type and size, of any planned infrastructure intended to be located within the area of the proposed GHG lease.
plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
(a) any likely conflict between an authorised activity to be carried out under the proposed GHG lease and another authorised activity carried out under an authority, however called, under another resource Act;
(b) details, including the location, type and size, of any planned infrastructure intended to be located within the area of the proposed GHG lease. Examples of infrastructure— • plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks • temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
• plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
• temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
• plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
• temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
sec.5
Information for site plans for GHG stream storage sites
sec.5 Information for site plans for GHG stream storage sites
For section 142 (3) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
details of—
each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
the impacts GHG stream storage may have on a relevant well or relevant bore;
how the impacts on a relevant well or relevant bore will be mitigated or prevented.
(a) details of— (i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and (ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
(i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
(ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
(b) the impacts GHG stream storage may have on a relevant well or relevant bore;
(c) how the impacts on a relevant well or relevant bore will be mitigated or prevented.
(i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
(ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
pt.3
Requirements for proposed test plans
Requirements for proposed test plans
sec.6
Requirements for proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing
sec.6 Requirements for proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing
For sections 80 (3) and 161 (3) of the Act , a proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing must include the following information—
where and how the proposed testing will be carried out;
details of the substance proposed to be injected, including—
whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
the operations and techniques to be used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance during the proposed testing;
an assessment of whether there is any risk to public health or the environment associated with the proposed testing;
how any risks mentioned in paragraph (d) will be mitigated or prevented.
(a) where and how the proposed testing will be carried out;
(b) details of the substance proposed to be injected, including— (i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and (ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and (iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and (iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and (v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
(i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
(iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
(v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
(c) the operations and techniques to be used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance during the proposed testing;
(d) an assessment of whether there is any risk to public health or the environment associated with the proposed testing;
(e) how any risks mentioned in paragraph (d) will be mitigated or prevented.
(i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
(iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
(v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
pt.4
Reporting
Reporting
sec.7
Information for relinquishment report for GHG permit
sec.7 Information for relinquishment report for GHG permit
For section 255 (1) (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
the permit information for the report;
the general area information for the report;
if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing—
a description of the methods used for the testing; and
information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area;
a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results;
the hazard information for the report;
the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect;
if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well;
the reason the holder has relinquished the area;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
In this section—
general area information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information—
spatial information showing the location of—
the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and
the relinquished area;
spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of—
each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and
each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area;
spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area;
a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas.
permit information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information—
the day the permit was granted;
the day the relinquishment takes effect;
the period of the work program for the GHG permit;
the blocks or sub-blocks that make up the relinquished area.
relinquished area , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the part of the area of the permit that is relinquished.
s 7 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 59
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 255 (1) (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed— the permit information for the report; the general area information for the report; if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing— a description of the methods used for the testing; and information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected; a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area; a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results; the hazard information for the report; the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect; if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well; the reason the holder has relinquished the area; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.7-ssec.2) In this section— general area information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information— spatial information showing the location of— the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and the relinquished area; spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of— each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit; structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area; spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area; a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas. permit information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information— the day the permit was granted; the day the relinquishment takes effect; the period of the work program for the GHG permit; the blocks or sub-blocks that make up the relinquished area. relinquished area , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the part of the area of the permit that is relinquished.
(a) the permit information for the report;
(b) the general area information for the report;
(c) if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing— (i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and (ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and
(ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(d) a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area;
(e) a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results;
(f) the hazard information for the report;
(g) the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect;
(h) if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well;
(i) the reason the holder has relinquished the area;
(j) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and
(ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(a) spatial information showing the location of— (i) the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and (ii) the relinquished area;
(i) the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and
(ii) the relinquished area;
(b) spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of— (i) each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and (ii) each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
(i) each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and
(ii) each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
(c) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area;
(d) spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area;
(e) a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas.
(i) the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and
(ii) the relinquished area;
(i) each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and
(ii) each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
(a) the day the permit was granted;
(b) the day the relinquishment takes effect;
(c) the period of the work program for the GHG permit;
(d) the blocks or sub-blocks that make up the relinquished area.
sec.8
Information for end of tenure report
sec.8 Information for end of tenure report
For section 256 (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
any information, other than the information mentioned in section 256 (a) of the Act , required for a report under—
for a GHG permit— section 7 ; or
for a GHG lease— section 9 ;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
For subsection (1) —
a reference in section 7 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the GHG permit immediately before it ended; and
a reference in section 9 to the GHG lease being surrendered is taken to be a reference to the lease immediately before it ended.
Subsection (1) does not apply to the extent the information has been included in a relinquishment report or a report for a surrender application given for the tenure.
s 8 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 60
(sec.8-ssec.1) For section 256 (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed— any information, other than the information mentioned in section 256 (a) of the Act , required for a report under— for a GHG permit— section 7 ; or for a GHG lease— section 9 ; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.8-ssec.2) For subsection (1) — a reference in section 7 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the GHG permit immediately before it ended; and a reference in section 9 to the GHG lease being surrendered is taken to be a reference to the lease immediately before it ended.
(sec.8-ssec.3) Subsection (1) does not apply to the extent the information has been included in a relinquishment report or a report for a surrender application given for the tenure.
(a) any information, other than the information mentioned in section 256 (a) of the Act , required for a report under— (i) for a GHG permit— section 7 ; or (ii) for a GHG lease— section 9 ;
(i) for a GHG permit— section 7 ; or
(ii) for a GHG lease— section 9 ;
(b) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) for a GHG permit— section 7 ; or
(ii) for a GHG lease— section 9 ;
(a) a reference in section 7 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the GHG permit immediately before it ended; and
(b) a reference in section 9 to the GHG lease being surrendered is taken to be a reference to the lease immediately before it ended.
sec.9
Information for report for a surrender application
sec.9 Information for report for a surrender application
For section 177 (2) (g) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
information about the amount and location of—
GHG stream storage carried out in the area of the GHG lease; and
water produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
other information related to the information mentioned in paragraph (a) that helps to show or describe—
the size and location of any GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease; and
the amount and location of water that may be produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
a description of the geological features of each GHG stream storage reservoir in the area of the lease in which a GHG stream has been stored;
a description of the methods used to store each GHG stream;
the hazard information for the report;
how the impacts or potential impacts on petroleum wells or water bores that intersect GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease have been mitigated or prevented;
any information required to be reported under the Act for the lease that has not been previously reported;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
s 9 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 61
(a) information about the amount and location of— (i) GHG stream storage carried out in the area of the GHG lease; and (ii) water produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
(i) GHG stream storage carried out in the area of the GHG lease; and
(ii) water produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
(b) other information related to the information mentioned in paragraph (a) that helps to show or describe— (i) the size and location of any GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease; and (ii) the amount and location of water that may be produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
(i) the size and location of any GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease; and
(ii) the amount and location of water that may be produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
(c) a description of the geological features of each GHG stream storage reservoir in the area of the lease in which a GHG stream has been stored;
(d) a description of the methods used to store each GHG stream;
(e) the hazard information for the report;
(f) how the impacts or potential impacts on petroleum wells or water bores that intersect GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease have been mitigated or prevented;
(g) any information required to be reported under the Act for the lease that has not been previously reported;
(h) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) GHG stream storage carried out in the area of the GHG lease; and
(ii) water produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
(i) the size and location of any GHG stream storage sites in the area of the lease; and
(ii) the amount and location of water that may be produced for an authorised activity carried out in the area of the lease from each GHG well or water bore in the area;
pt.5
Other notices and reports
Other notices and reports
pt.5-div.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.10
Purpose of part
sec.10 Purpose of part
This part prescribes, for section 257 (1) (b) of the Act , notices and reports required to be given to the chief executive by the holder of a GHG authority.
s 10 amd 2025 SL No. 48 s 14 sch 1
pt.5-div.2
Notices
Notices
sec.11
Notice about intention to drill a GHG well
sec.11 Notice about intention to drill a GHG well
If the holder of a GHG tenure intends to drill a GHG well, the holder must give the chief executive a notice about the proposed drilling of the well.
The notice must—
be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the drilling starts; and
state a proposed identifying name for the GHG well.
The proposed identifying name must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another well recorded in the register.
(sec.11-ssec.1) If the holder of a GHG tenure intends to drill a GHG well, the holder must give the chief executive a notice about the proposed drilling of the well.
(sec.11-ssec.2) The notice must— be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the drilling starts; and state a proposed identifying name for the GHG well.
(sec.11-ssec.3) The proposed identifying name must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another well recorded in the register.
(a) be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the drilling starts; and
(b) state a proposed identifying name for the GHG well.
sec.12
Notice about particular events for GHG wells
sec.12 Notice about particular events for GHG wells
If any of the following events happens, the relevant holder must give the chief executive a notice about the event—
drilling of a GHG well is completed;
the completion configuration of a GHG well changes;
a GHG well is abandoned.
For subsection (1) (a) , drilling of a GHG well is completed if—
the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and
the relevant holder intends no further drilling of the well to occur.
For subsection (1) (b) , the completion configuration of a GHG well changes if, after drilling of the well is completed—
additional casing is installed in the well; or
any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or
an interval in the well is altered in another way.
The notice must be given to the chief executive in the required way within 10 business days after the event happens.
In this section—
relevant holder means the holder of the GHG tenure under which the GHG well was drilled.
(sec.12-ssec.1) If any of the following events happens, the relevant holder must give the chief executive a notice about the event— drilling of a GHG well is completed; the completion configuration of a GHG well changes; a GHG well is abandoned.
(sec.12-ssec.2) For subsection (1) (a) , drilling of a GHG well is completed if— the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and the relevant holder intends no further drilling of the well to occur.
(sec.12-ssec.3) For subsection (1) (b) , the completion configuration of a GHG well changes if, after drilling of the well is completed— additional casing is installed in the well; or any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or an interval in the well is altered in another way.
(sec.12-ssec.4) The notice must be given to the chief executive in the required way within 10 business days after the event happens.
(sec.12-ssec.5) In this section— relevant holder means the holder of the GHG tenure under which the GHG well was drilled.
(a) drilling of a GHG well is completed;
(b) the completion configuration of a GHG well changes;
(c) a GHG well is abandoned.
(a) the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and
(b) the relevant holder intends no further drilling of the well to occur.
(a) additional casing is installed in the well; or
(b) any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or
(c) an interval in the well is altered in another way.
sec.13
Notice about intention to carry out seismic survey or scientific or technical survey
sec.13 Notice about intention to carry out seismic survey or scientific or technical survey
This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority intends to carry out a seismic survey or a scientific or technical survey in either of the following areas—
the area of a GHG tenure;
an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
The holder must give the chief executive a notice about the survey stating the following information—
an identifying name for the survey;
the type of survey to be carried out;
seismic, geophysical, geochemical, geotechnical
a description of the area to be surveyed;
the day the surveying will start;
the expected duration of the surveying.
The identifying name for the survey must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another survey recorded in the register.
The notice must—
be in the approved form; and
be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the survey starts; and
be accompanied by spatial information showing the location of the area to be surveyed.
(sec.13-ssec.1) This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority intends to carry out a seismic survey or a scientific or technical survey in either of the following areas— the area of a GHG tenure; an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
(sec.13-ssec.2) The holder must give the chief executive a notice about the survey stating the following information— an identifying name for the survey; the type of survey to be carried out; seismic, geophysical, geochemical, geotechnical a description of the area to be surveyed; the day the surveying will start; the expected duration of the surveying.
(sec.13-ssec.3) The identifying name for the survey must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another survey recorded in the register.
(sec.13-ssec.4) The notice must— be in the approved form; and be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the survey starts; and be accompanied by spatial information showing the location of the area to be surveyed.
(a) the area of a GHG tenure;
(b) an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
(a) an identifying name for the survey;
(b) the type of survey to be carried out; Examples— seismic, geophysical, geochemical, geotechnical
(c) a description of the area to be surveyed;
(d) the day the surveying will start;
(e) the expected duration of the surveying.
(a) be in the approved form; and
(b) be given to the chief executive in the required way at least 10 business days before the survey starts; and
(c) be accompanied by spatial information showing the location of the area to be surveyed.
sec.14
Notice about completion of seismic survey or scientific or technical survey
sec.14 Notice about completion of seismic survey or scientific or technical survey
This section applies if a seismic survey or a scientific or technical survey is completed in either of the following areas—
the area of a GHG tenure;
an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
The holder of the GHG authority for the area must give the chief executive a notice about the completion of the survey.
The notice must—
be in the approved form; and
be given to the chief executive in the required way within 10 business days after the survey is completed.
For this section, a survey is completed as soon as all of the raw data for the survey has been recorded or recovered.
(sec.14-ssec.1) This section applies if a seismic survey or a scientific or technical survey is completed in either of the following areas— the area of a GHG tenure; an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
(sec.14-ssec.2) The holder of the GHG authority for the area must give the chief executive a notice about the completion of the survey.
(sec.14-ssec.3) The notice must— be in the approved form; and be given to the chief executive in the required way within 10 business days after the survey is completed.
(sec.14-ssec.4) For this section, a survey is completed as soon as all of the raw data for the survey has been recorded or recovered.
(a) the area of a GHG tenure;
(b) an area subject to a GHG data acquisition authority that relates to a GHG tenure.
(a) be in the approved form; and
(b) be given to the chief executive in the required way within 10 business days after the survey is completed.
pt.5-div.3
GHG well reports
GHG well reports
sec.15
Daily drilling report
sec.15 Daily drilling report
The holder of a GHG tenure must keep a report (a daily drilling report ) for each day on which drilling of a GHG well is carried out under the tenure.
A daily drilling report for a GHG well must contain the following information about the drilling carried out on the day to which the report relates—
the identifying name of the well;
the tenure holder’s name and the tenure under which the well was drilled;
the type of drilling rig used;
a summary of the drilling operations carried out;
the depth in metres of the well at the end of the day’s drilling;
the size and type of drill bit used;
the drilling fluids and additives used;
the size and depth in metres of any casing inserted in the well;
the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval in the well;
the results of any deviation surveys carried out in the well;
a description of any drill stem tests or other tests carried out in the well;
the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals;
details of any squeeze cementing or cement plugging carried out;
a description of any cores or cutting samples taken;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
In this section—
deviation survey means a survey of the path of a GHG well that measures its direction in 3 dimensions.
s 15 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 62
(sec.15-ssec.1) The holder of a GHG tenure must keep a report (a daily drilling report ) for each day on which drilling of a GHG well is carried out under the tenure.
(sec.15-ssec.2) A daily drilling report for a GHG well must contain the following information about the drilling carried out on the day to which the report relates— the identifying name of the well; the tenure holder’s name and the tenure under which the well was drilled; the type of drilling rig used; a summary of the drilling operations carried out; the depth in metres of the well at the end of the day’s drilling; the size and type of drill bit used; the drilling fluids and additives used; the size and depth in metres of any casing inserted in the well; the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval in the well; the results of any deviation surveys carried out in the well; a description of any drill stem tests or other tests carried out in the well; the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; details of any squeeze cementing or cement plugging carried out; a description of any cores or cutting samples taken; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.15-ssec.3) In this section— deviation survey means a survey of the path of a GHG well that measures its direction in 3 dimensions.
(a) the identifying name of the well;
(b) the tenure holder’s name and the tenure under which the well was drilled;
(c) the type of drilling rig used;
(d) a summary of the drilling operations carried out;
(e) the depth in metres of the well at the end of the day’s drilling;
(f) the size and type of drill bit used;
(g) the drilling fluids and additives used;
(h) the size and depth in metres of any casing inserted in the well;
(i) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval in the well;
(j) the results of any deviation surveys carried out in the well;
(k) a description of any drill stem tests or other tests carried out in the well;
(l) the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals;
(m) details of any squeeze cementing or cement plugging carried out;
(n) a description of any cores or cutting samples taken;
(o) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
sec.16
Well completion report
sec.16 Well completion report
The holder of a GHG tenure must give the chief executive a report (a well completion report ) about the completion of a GHG well drilled under the tenure.
The report must be given to the chief executive in the required way within 12 months after the rig release day for the well.
The report must contain the following information—
the type and number of the GHG tenure;
the name and postal address of the operator of the well;
the identifying name of the well;
a summary of the information about the well in the report (commonly known as a ‘well card’);
spatial information showing the location of the well;
a geological summary of the area of the tenure;
the reasons for the location of the well having regard to the geological structure of the surrounding area;
a copy of each daily drilling report for the well;
the ground level and kelly bushing level in metres for the well;
the total depth in metres of the well;
the following days—
the day the drilling of the well started;
the day the total depth of the well was reached;
the rig release day for the well;
details of the drilling rig, the number and type of drill bits, and the drilling fluids, used to drill the well;
the status of the well on the rig release day;
the surveyed path of the well;
details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with a diagram showing their location in the well;
the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals;
details of the cementing in the well, including its location, the type of cement used and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval;
a description of all tests or surveys carried out for drilling the well, including the depth in metres of the place or interval at which the testing was carried out;
a geological interpretation of the well, including the stratigraphy of the rock units it intersects;
an identification of the intervals intersected by the well that have the potential for GHG stream storage;
an assessment of—
the relevance of the well to the GHG stream storage potential within the vicinity of the well; and
the implications of the well for the future management of any GHG storage reservoir to which the well relates;
a description of each geological sample taken during the drilling of the well, including the depth in metres at which the sample was taken and the results of any analysis carried out for the sample;
conventional cores and fluid samples, cuttings, sidewall cores
an interpretation of the data obtained from the geophysical (or wireline) logs that have been run in the well;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
For a directional well, the report must also state the position of each of the following—
the stratigraphic units intersected by the well;
the bottom of the well;
any intersection of the well with the following—
another GHG well;
a petroleum well;
an exploration bore under the Geothermal Act .
For subsection (4) , the position must be expressed using—
the total vertical depth in metres; and
the horizontal plane.
The report must be accompanied by each of the following—
a digital image of the cores taken during the drilling of the well;
the raw data, in digital form, of each geophysical (or wireline) log that has been run in the well;
a digital image of the graphic representations of the raw data mentioned in paragraph (b) .
If the well is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the well, the report must be accompanied by a well abandonment report for the well.
s 16 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 63
(sec.16-ssec.1) The holder of a GHG tenure must give the chief executive a report (a well completion report ) about the completion of a GHG well drilled under the tenure.
(sec.16-ssec.2) The report must be given to the chief executive in the required way within 12 months after the rig release day for the well.
(sec.16-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— the type and number of the GHG tenure; the name and postal address of the operator of the well; the identifying name of the well; a summary of the information about the well in the report (commonly known as a ‘well card’); spatial information showing the location of the well; a geological summary of the area of the tenure; the reasons for the location of the well having regard to the geological structure of the surrounding area; a copy of each daily drilling report for the well; the ground level and kelly bushing level in metres for the well; the total depth in metres of the well; the following days— the day the drilling of the well started; the day the total depth of the well was reached; the rig release day for the well; details of the drilling rig, the number and type of drill bits, and the drilling fluids, used to drill the well; the status of the well on the rig release day; the surveyed path of the well; details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with a diagram showing their location in the well; the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; details of the cementing in the well, including its location, the type of cement used and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval; a description of all tests or surveys carried out for drilling the well, including the depth in metres of the place or interval at which the testing was carried out; a geological interpretation of the well, including the stratigraphy of the rock units it intersects; an identification of the intervals intersected by the well that have the potential for GHG stream storage; an assessment of— the relevance of the well to the GHG stream storage potential within the vicinity of the well; and the implications of the well for the future management of any GHG storage reservoir to which the well relates; a description of each geological sample taken during the drilling of the well, including the depth in metres at which the sample was taken and the results of any analysis carried out for the sample; conventional cores and fluid samples, cuttings, sidewall cores an interpretation of the data obtained from the geophysical (or wireline) logs that have been run in the well; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.16-ssec.4) For a directional well, the report must also state the position of each of the following— the stratigraphic units intersected by the well; the bottom of the well; any intersection of the well with the following— another GHG well; a petroleum well; an exploration bore under the Geothermal Act .
(sec.16-ssec.5) For subsection (4) , the position must be expressed using— the total vertical depth in metres; and the horizontal plane.
(sec.16-ssec.6) The report must be accompanied by each of the following— a digital image of the cores taken during the drilling of the well; the raw data, in digital form, of each geophysical (or wireline) log that has been run in the well; a digital image of the graphic representations of the raw data mentioned in paragraph (b) .
(sec.16-ssec.7) If the well is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the well, the report must be accompanied by a well abandonment report for the well.
(a) the type and number of the GHG tenure;
(b) the name and postal address of the operator of the well;
(c) the identifying name of the well;
(d) a summary of the information about the well in the report (commonly known as a ‘well card’);
(e) spatial information showing the location of the well;
(f) a geological summary of the area of the tenure;
(g) the reasons for the location of the well having regard to the geological structure of the surrounding area;
(h) a copy of each daily drilling report for the well;
(i) the ground level and kelly bushing level in metres for the well;
(j) the total depth in metres of the well;
(k) the following days— (i) the day the drilling of the well started; (ii) the day the total depth of the well was reached; (iii) the rig release day for the well;
(i) the day the drilling of the well started;
(ii) the day the total depth of the well was reached;
(iii) the rig release day for the well;
(l) details of the drilling rig, the number and type of drill bits, and the drilling fluids, used to drill the well;
(m) the status of the well on the rig release day;
(n) the surveyed path of the well;
(o) details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with a diagram showing their location in the well;
(p) the type of any perforations in the well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals;
(q) details of the cementing in the well, including its location, the type of cement used and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of each cemented interval;
(r) a description of all tests or surveys carried out for drilling the well, including the depth in metres of the place or interval at which the testing was carried out;
(s) a geological interpretation of the well, including the stratigraphy of the rock units it intersects;
(t) an identification of the intervals intersected by the well that have the potential for GHG stream storage;
(u) an assessment of— (i) the relevance of the well to the GHG stream storage potential within the vicinity of the well; and (ii) the implications of the well for the future management of any GHG storage reservoir to which the well relates;
(i) the relevance of the well to the GHG stream storage potential within the vicinity of the well; and
(ii) the implications of the well for the future management of any GHG storage reservoir to which the well relates;
(v) a description of each geological sample taken during the drilling of the well, including the depth in metres at which the sample was taken and the results of any analysis carried out for the sample; Examples of geological samples— conventional cores and fluid samples, cuttings, sidewall cores
(w) an interpretation of the data obtained from the geophysical (or wireline) logs that have been run in the well;
(x) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) the day the drilling of the well started;
(ii) the day the total depth of the well was reached;
(iii) the rig release day for the well;
(i) the relevance of the well to the GHG stream storage potential within the vicinity of the well; and
(ii) the implications of the well for the future management of any GHG storage reservoir to which the well relates;
(a) the stratigraphic units intersected by the well;
(b) the bottom of the well;
(c) any intersection of the well with the following— (i) another GHG well; (ii) a petroleum well; (iii) an exploration bore under the Geothermal Act .
(i) another GHG well;
(ii) a petroleum well;
(iii) an exploration bore under the Geothermal Act .
(i) another GHG well;
(ii) a petroleum well;
(iii) an exploration bore under the Geothermal Act .
(a) the total vertical depth in metres; and
(b) the horizontal plane.
(a) a digital image of the cores taken during the drilling of the well;
(b) the raw data, in digital form, of each geophysical (or wireline) log that has been run in the well;
(c) a digital image of the graphic representations of the raw data mentioned in paragraph (b) .
sec.17
Well abandonment report
sec.17 Well abandonment report
If a holder of a GHG tenure plugs and abandons a GHG well drilled under the tenure, the holder must give the chief executive a report (a well abandonment report ) about the abandonment.
The report must be given to the chief executive in the required way—
if the well is plugged or abandoned before the rig release day for the well—when the well completion report for the well is given to the chief executive under section 16 ; or
otherwise—within 6 months after the completion day.
The report must contain the following information—
on the first page, each of the following details—
the type and number of the relevant GHG tenure;
the identifying name of the well;
the name of the author of the report;
the name of the tenure holder;
the name of the operator of the well;
the name of the person submitting the report;
the date of the report, in day-month-year format;
a summary and history of the well, including—
spatial information showing its location; and
the day on which a well completion report for the well was given to the chief executive;
the following details about the well—
its total depth in metres;
the position at the top and bottom, expressed as required under subsection (4) , and the thickness of any coal seam, natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act or aquifer intersected by the well;
the depth in metres of any perforations in the casing of the well;
the type of drilling rig used to drill the well;
all surveys and measurements made in the well, including any detailed interpretation of a survey or measurement;
the following information about the completion or abandonment of the well—
details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with diagrams showing the major dimensions and features of the casing and equipment;
a full description of all equipment, including prescribed equipment, retained in the well, including, for example, the size and nature of the equipment and any features of the equipment that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations;
aluminium, batteries, electronics
the surveyed location of any prescribed equipment;
the method of the cementing operations carried out in or on the well, including, for example, the location and type of plugs, the intervals covered, the volume and type of cement used, any losses of cement due to voids or permeable strata, and the methods used to overcome losses of cement;
the method, materials and volume of cement used to cement voids;
a description of other abandonment procedures used for the well;
other details of the activities carried out in drilling, completing and plugging and abandoning the well, and an assessment of their possible impacts, that would help another person in making an assessment of potential risks to safe and efficient underground mining;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
For subsection (3) (c) (ii) , the position at the top and bottom of the coal seam, natural underground reservoir or aquifer must be expressed using—
for a directional well—
the total vertical depth in metres; and
the horizontal plane; or
otherwise—the depth in metres.
In this section—
completion day means the day on which plugging and abandoning of the well is completed.
prescribed equipment means—
metal equipment, other than casing; and
other equipment that may create a hazard to underground mining operations.
drilling equipment, geophysical logging tools
s 17 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 64
(sec.17-ssec.1) If a holder of a GHG tenure plugs and abandons a GHG well drilled under the tenure, the holder must give the chief executive a report (a well abandonment report ) about the abandonment.
(sec.17-ssec.2) The report must be given to the chief executive in the required way— if the well is plugged or abandoned before the rig release day for the well—when the well completion report for the well is given to the chief executive under section 16 ; or otherwise—within 6 months after the completion day.
(sec.17-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— on the first page, each of the following details— the type and number of the relevant GHG tenure; the identifying name of the well; the name of the author of the report; the name of the tenure holder; the name of the operator of the well; the name of the person submitting the report; the date of the report, in day-month-year format; a summary and history of the well, including— spatial information showing its location; and the day on which a well completion report for the well was given to the chief executive; the following details about the well— its total depth in metres; the position at the top and bottom, expressed as required under subsection (4) , and the thickness of any coal seam, natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act or aquifer intersected by the well; the depth in metres of any perforations in the casing of the well; the type of drilling rig used to drill the well; all surveys and measurements made in the well, including any detailed interpretation of a survey or measurement; the following information about the completion or abandonment of the well— details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with diagrams showing the major dimensions and features of the casing and equipment; a full description of all equipment, including prescribed equipment, retained in the well, including, for example, the size and nature of the equipment and any features of the equipment that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations; aluminium, batteries, electronics the surveyed location of any prescribed equipment; the method of the cementing operations carried out in or on the well, including, for example, the location and type of plugs, the intervals covered, the volume and type of cement used, any losses of cement due to voids or permeable strata, and the methods used to overcome losses of cement; the method, materials and volume of cement used to cement voids; a description of other abandonment procedures used for the well; other details of the activities carried out in drilling, completing and plugging and abandoning the well, and an assessment of their possible impacts, that would help another person in making an assessment of potential risks to safe and efficient underground mining; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.17-ssec.4) For subsection (3) (c) (ii) , the position at the top and bottom of the coal seam, natural underground reservoir or aquifer must be expressed using— for a directional well— the total vertical depth in metres; and the horizontal plane; or otherwise—the depth in metres.
(sec.17-ssec.5) In this section— completion day means the day on which plugging and abandoning of the well is completed. prescribed equipment means— metal equipment, other than casing; and other equipment that may create a hazard to underground mining operations. drilling equipment, geophysical logging tools
(a) if the well is plugged or abandoned before the rig release day for the well—when the well completion report for the well is given to the chief executive under section 16 ; or
(b) otherwise—within 6 months after the completion day.
(a) on the first page, each of the following details— (i) the type and number of the relevant GHG tenure; (ii) the identifying name of the well; (iii) the name of the author of the report; (iv) the name of the tenure holder; (v) the name of the operator of the well; (vi) the name of the person submitting the report; (vii) the date of the report, in day-month-year format;
(i) the type and number of the relevant GHG tenure;
(ii) the identifying name of the well;
(iii) the name of the author of the report;
(iv) the name of the tenure holder;
(v) the name of the operator of the well;
(vi) the name of the person submitting the report;
(vii) the date of the report, in day-month-year format;
(b) a summary and history of the well, including— (i) spatial information showing its location; and (ii) the day on which a well completion report for the well was given to the chief executive;
(i) spatial information showing its location; and
(ii) the day on which a well completion report for the well was given to the chief executive;
(c) the following details about the well— (i) its total depth in metres; (ii) the position at the top and bottom, expressed as required under subsection (4) , and the thickness of any coal seam, natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act or aquifer intersected by the well; (iii) the depth in metres of any perforations in the casing of the well; (iv) the type of drilling rig used to drill the well;
(i) its total depth in metres;
(ii) the position at the top and bottom, expressed as required under subsection (4) , and the thickness of any coal seam, natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act or aquifer intersected by the well;
(iii) the depth in metres of any perforations in the casing of the well;
(iv) the type of drilling rig used to drill the well;
(d) all surveys and measurements made in the well, including any detailed interpretation of a survey or measurement;
(e) the following information about the completion or abandonment of the well— (i) details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with diagrams showing the major dimensions and features of the casing and equipment; (ii) a full description of all equipment, including prescribed equipment, retained in the well, including, for example, the size and nature of the equipment and any features of the equipment that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations; Examples of features that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations— aluminium, batteries, electronics (iii) the surveyed location of any prescribed equipment; (iv) the method of the cementing operations carried out in or on the well, including, for example, the location and type of plugs, the intervals covered, the volume and type of cement used, any losses of cement due to voids or permeable strata, and the methods used to overcome losses of cement; (v) the method, materials and volume of cement used to cement voids; (vi) a description of other abandonment procedures used for the well; (vii) other details of the activities carried out in drilling, completing and plugging and abandoning the well, and an assessment of their possible impacts, that would help another person in making an assessment of potential risks to safe and efficient underground mining;
(i) details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with diagrams showing the major dimensions and features of the casing and equipment;
(ii) a full description of all equipment, including prescribed equipment, retained in the well, including, for example, the size and nature of the equipment and any features of the equipment that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations; Examples of features that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations— aluminium, batteries, electronics
(iii) the surveyed location of any prescribed equipment;
(iv) the method of the cementing operations carried out in or on the well, including, for example, the location and type of plugs, the intervals covered, the volume and type of cement used, any losses of cement due to voids or permeable strata, and the methods used to overcome losses of cement;
(v) the method, materials and volume of cement used to cement voids;
(vi) a description of other abandonment procedures used for the well;
(vii) other details of the activities carried out in drilling, completing and plugging and abandoning the well, and an assessment of their possible impacts, that would help another person in making an assessment of potential risks to safe and efficient underground mining;
(f) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) the type and number of the relevant GHG tenure;
(ii) the identifying name of the well;
(iii) the name of the author of the report;
(iv) the name of the tenure holder;
(v) the name of the operator of the well;
(vi) the name of the person submitting the report;
(vii) the date of the report, in day-month-year format;
(i) spatial information showing its location; and
(ii) the day on which a well completion report for the well was given to the chief executive;
(i) its total depth in metres;
(ii) the position at the top and bottom, expressed as required under subsection (4) , and the thickness of any coal seam, natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act or aquifer intersected by the well;
(iii) the depth in metres of any perforations in the casing of the well;
(iv) the type of drilling rig used to drill the well;
(i) details of the casing and equipment installed in the well, with diagrams showing the major dimensions and features of the casing and equipment;
(ii) a full description of all equipment, including prescribed equipment, retained in the well, including, for example, the size and nature of the equipment and any features of the equipment that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations; Examples of features that may cause a hazard to underground mining operations— aluminium, batteries, electronics
(iii) the surveyed location of any prescribed equipment;
(iv) the method of the cementing operations carried out in or on the well, including, for example, the location and type of plugs, the intervals covered, the volume and type of cement used, any losses of cement due to voids or permeable strata, and the methods used to overcome losses of cement;
(v) the method, materials and volume of cement used to cement voids;
(vi) a description of other abandonment procedures used for the well;
(vii) other details of the activities carried out in drilling, completing and plugging and abandoning the well, and an assessment of their possible impacts, that would help another person in making an assessment of potential risks to safe and efficient underground mining;
(a) for a directional well— (i) the total vertical depth in metres; and (ii) the horizontal plane; or
(i) the total vertical depth in metres; and
(ii) the horizontal plane; or
(b) otherwise—the depth in metres.
(i) the total vertical depth in metres; and
(ii) the horizontal plane; or
(a) metal equipment, other than casing; and
(b) other equipment that may create a hazard to underground mining operations.
pt.5-div.4
Survey reports
Survey reports
sec.18
Seismic survey report
sec.18 Seismic survey report
This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority—
carries out a seismic survey of the area of the authority; or
reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
The holder must give the chief executive in the required way a seismic survey report for the survey within 2 years after the completion day for the survey.
The report must contain the following information—
a description of the location of the area surveyed;
a geological summary of the area surveyed;
an index of previous seismic surveys carried out under the authority in the area and a summary of the results of the surveys;
the objectives of the survey;
the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, details of the seismic lines used and the days on which the activities were carried out;
a description of each method used to acquire raw data, including—
the equipment used for positioning, surveying, navigation or other purposes; and
the techniques and equipment used for recording and testing the data;
a description of how the raw data was processed or reprocessed;
an evaluation of the processed or reprocessed data, including an interpretation of the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) and any leads or prospects identified from the data;
spatial information showing the location of the seismic lines used for the survey;
if the report is not accompanied by grid files for the area surveyed in digital form—
structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the area surveyed; and
spatial information about the area showing variations in the thickness of stratigraphic units (isopach maps);
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
The report must be accompanied, in digital form, by—
each of the following—
the raw data obtained from the survey and the record made as the data was recorded (commonly known as the ‘observer’s logs’);
a list of the seismic lines used and the range of the numbered stations on each line;
the surveyed location, including the elevation, of each seismic source and receiver point;
the processed or reprocessed data derived from each seismic line used for the survey;
a graphical representation of the data mentioned in subparagraph (iv) ; and
if an activity for the survey was carried out by a contractor of the holder, a copy of any report given to the holder by the contractor for the activity.
In this section—
grid file , for an area, means a representation, on a close-spaced, regular grid, of an interpretation of time and depth to seismic horizons (seismic reflectors).
s 18 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 65
(sec.18-ssec.1) This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority— carries out a seismic survey of the area of the authority; or reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(sec.18-ssec.2) The holder must give the chief executive in the required way a seismic survey report for the survey within 2 years after the completion day for the survey.
(sec.18-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— a description of the location of the area surveyed; a geological summary of the area surveyed; an index of previous seismic surveys carried out under the authority in the area and a summary of the results of the surveys; the objectives of the survey; the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, details of the seismic lines used and the days on which the activities were carried out; a description of each method used to acquire raw data, including— the equipment used for positioning, surveying, navigation or other purposes; and the techniques and equipment used for recording and testing the data; a description of how the raw data was processed or reprocessed; an evaluation of the processed or reprocessed data, including an interpretation of the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) and any leads or prospects identified from the data; spatial information showing the location of the seismic lines used for the survey; if the report is not accompanied by grid files for the area surveyed in digital form— structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the area surveyed; and spatial information about the area showing variations in the thickness of stratigraphic units (isopach maps); any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.18-ssec.4) The report must be accompanied, in digital form, by— each of the following— the raw data obtained from the survey and the record made as the data was recorded (commonly known as the ‘observer’s logs’); a list of the seismic lines used and the range of the numbered stations on each line; the surveyed location, including the elevation, of each seismic source and receiver point; the processed or reprocessed data derived from each seismic line used for the survey; a graphical representation of the data mentioned in subparagraph (iv) ; and if an activity for the survey was carried out by a contractor of the holder, a copy of any report given to the holder by the contractor for the activity.
(sec.18-ssec.5) In this section— grid file , for an area, means a representation, on a close-spaced, regular grid, of an interpretation of time and depth to seismic horizons (seismic reflectors).
(a) carries out a seismic survey of the area of the authority; or
(b) reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(a) a description of the location of the area surveyed;
(b) a geological summary of the area surveyed;
(c) an index of previous seismic surveys carried out under the authority in the area and a summary of the results of the surveys;
(d) the objectives of the survey;
(e) the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, details of the seismic lines used and the days on which the activities were carried out;
(f) a description of each method used to acquire raw data, including— (i) the equipment used for positioning, surveying, navigation or other purposes; and (ii) the techniques and equipment used for recording and testing the data;
(i) the equipment used for positioning, surveying, navigation or other purposes; and
(ii) the techniques and equipment used for recording and testing the data;
(g) a description of how the raw data was processed or reprocessed;
(h) an evaluation of the processed or reprocessed data, including an interpretation of the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) and any leads or prospects identified from the data;
(i) spatial information showing the location of the seismic lines used for the survey;
(j) if the report is not accompanied by grid files for the area surveyed in digital form— (i) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the area surveyed; and (ii) spatial information about the area showing variations in the thickness of stratigraphic units (isopach maps);
(i) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the area surveyed; and
(ii) spatial information about the area showing variations in the thickness of stratigraphic units (isopach maps);
(k) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) the equipment used for positioning, surveying, navigation or other purposes; and
(ii) the techniques and equipment used for recording and testing the data;
(i) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the area surveyed; and
(ii) spatial information about the area showing variations in the thickness of stratigraphic units (isopach maps);
(a) each of the following— (i) the raw data obtained from the survey and the record made as the data was recorded (commonly known as the ‘observer’s logs’); (ii) a list of the seismic lines used and the range of the numbered stations on each line; (iii) the surveyed location, including the elevation, of each seismic source and receiver point; (iv) the processed or reprocessed data derived from each seismic line used for the survey; (v) a graphical representation of the data mentioned in subparagraph (iv) ; and
(i) the raw data obtained from the survey and the record made as the data was recorded (commonly known as the ‘observer’s logs’);
(ii) a list of the seismic lines used and the range of the numbered stations on each line;
(iii) the surveyed location, including the elevation, of each seismic source and receiver point;
(iv) the processed or reprocessed data derived from each seismic line used for the survey;
(v) a graphical representation of the data mentioned in subparagraph (iv) ; and
(b) if an activity for the survey was carried out by a contractor of the holder, a copy of any report given to the holder by the contractor for the activity.
(i) the raw data obtained from the survey and the record made as the data was recorded (commonly known as the ‘observer’s logs’);
(ii) a list of the seismic lines used and the range of the numbered stations on each line;
(iii) the surveyed location, including the elevation, of each seismic source and receiver point;
(iv) the processed or reprocessed data derived from each seismic line used for the survey;
(v) a graphical representation of the data mentioned in subparagraph (iv) ; and
sec.19
Scientific or technical survey report
sec.19 Scientific or technical survey report
This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority—
carries out a scientific or technical survey of an area of the authority; or
reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
The holder must give the chief executive in the required way a scientific or technical survey report for the survey within 12 months after the completion day for the survey.
The report must contain the following information—
a description of the location of the area surveyed;
a geological summary of the area surveyed;
the type of survey carried out;
an index of previous scientific or technical surveys, of the same type as the survey for which the report is given, carried out in the area surveyed;
the objectives of the survey;
the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, the days on which the activities were carried out;
the methods and equipment used for acquiring and processing, or reprocessing, data;
an interpretation of the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey;
spatial information showing the location of—
the area surveyed; and
where any measurements were made or samples were taken for the survey;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
The report must be accompanied by each of the following in digital form—
the raw data obtained from the survey;
the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey.
s 19 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 66
(sec.19-ssec.1) This section applies if the holder of a GHG authority— carries out a scientific or technical survey of an area of the authority; or reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(sec.19-ssec.2) The holder must give the chief executive in the required way a scientific or technical survey report for the survey within 12 months after the completion day for the survey.
(sec.19-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— a description of the location of the area surveyed; a geological summary of the area surveyed; the type of survey carried out; an index of previous scientific or technical surveys, of the same type as the survey for which the report is given, carried out in the area surveyed; the objectives of the survey; the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, the days on which the activities were carried out; the methods and equipment used for acquiring and processing, or reprocessing, data; an interpretation of the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey; spatial information showing the location of— the area surveyed; and where any measurements were made or samples were taken for the survey; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.19-ssec.4) The report must be accompanied by each of the following in digital form— the raw data obtained from the survey; the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey.
(a) carries out a scientific or technical survey of an area of the authority; or
(b) reprocesses raw data obtained from a survey mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(a) a description of the location of the area surveyed;
(b) a geological summary of the area surveyed;
(c) the type of survey carried out;
(d) an index of previous scientific or technical surveys, of the same type as the survey for which the report is given, carried out in the area surveyed;
(e) the objectives of the survey;
(f) the activities carried out for the survey, including, for example, the days on which the activities were carried out;
(g) the methods and equipment used for acquiring and processing, or reprocessing, data;
(h) an interpretation of the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey;
(i) spatial information showing the location of— (i) the area surveyed; and (ii) where any measurements were made or samples were taken for the survey;
(i) the area surveyed; and
(ii) where any measurements were made or samples were taken for the survey;
(j) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) the area surveyed; and
(ii) where any measurements were made or samples were taken for the survey;
(a) the raw data obtained from the survey;
(b) the processed or reprocessed data derived from the survey.
pt.5-div.5
GHG storage reports
GHG storage reports
sec.20
How particular volumes must be stated in reports
sec.20 How particular volumes must be stated in reports
If this division requires a volume of a GHG stream or water to be stated in a report, the volume must be stated as—
for a GHG stream—millions of cubic metres; or
for water—megalitres.
(a) for a GHG stream—millions of cubic metres; or
(b) for water—megalitres.
sec.21
GHG storage injection testing report
sec.21 GHG storage injection testing report
This section applies if GHG storage injection testing for an underground geological formation or structure is carried out under a GHG tenure.
The holder of the tenure must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG storage injection testing report ) about the GHG storage injection testing within 40 business days after the testing ends.
The report must contain the following information—
the type and number of the tenure;
for the GHG well used for testing—
the identifying name of the well; and
the type of any perforations in the GHG well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; and
the choke size used for the well;
an identification of each underground geological formation or structure into which a GHG stream or water was injected as part of the testing;
the duration of the testing;
details of the substance injected, including—
whether the substance is composed of GHG stream or water; and
if a GHG stream was injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
the volume of the substance injected; and
the rate at which the substance was injected; and
the observed migration pathway of the substance after injection;
the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance injected;
an assessment of risks to public health or the environment associated with the testing;
how the risks mentioned in paragraph (g) are being mitigated;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
s 21 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 67
(sec.21-ssec.1) This section applies if GHG storage injection testing for an underground geological formation or structure is carried out under a GHG tenure.
(sec.21-ssec.2) The holder of the tenure must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG storage injection testing report ) about the GHG storage injection testing within 40 business days after the testing ends.
(sec.21-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— the type and number of the tenure; for the GHG well used for testing— the identifying name of the well; and the type of any perforations in the GHG well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; and the choke size used for the well; an identification of each underground geological formation or structure into which a GHG stream or water was injected as part of the testing; the duration of the testing; details of the substance injected, including— whether the substance is composed of GHG stream or water; and if a GHG stream was injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and the volume of the substance injected; and the rate at which the substance was injected; and the observed migration pathway of the substance after injection; the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance injected; an assessment of risks to public health or the environment associated with the testing; how the risks mentioned in paragraph (g) are being mitigated; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(a) the type and number of the tenure;
(b) for the GHG well used for testing— (i) the identifying name of the well; and (ii) the type of any perforations in the GHG well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; and (iii) the choke size used for the well;
(i) the identifying name of the well; and
(ii) the type of any perforations in the GHG well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; and
(iii) the choke size used for the well;
(c) an identification of each underground geological formation or structure into which a GHG stream or water was injected as part of the testing;
(d) the duration of the testing;
(e) details of the substance injected, including— (i) whether the substance is composed of GHG stream or water; and (ii) if a GHG stream was injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and (iii) the volume of the substance injected; and (iv) the rate at which the substance was injected; and (v) the observed migration pathway of the substance after injection;
(i) whether the substance is composed of GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream was injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the volume of the substance injected; and
(iv) the rate at which the substance was injected; and
(v) the observed migration pathway of the substance after injection;
(f) the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance injected;
(g) an assessment of risks to public health or the environment associated with the testing;
(h) how the risks mentioned in paragraph (g) are being mitigated;
(i) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) the identifying name of the well; and
(ii) the type of any perforations in the GHG well and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the perforated intervals; and
(iii) the choke size used for the well;
(i) whether the substance is composed of GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream was injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the volume of the substance injected; and
(iv) the rate at which the substance was injected; and
(v) the observed migration pathway of the substance after injection;
sec.22
GHG stream storage capacity report
sec.22 GHG stream storage capacity report
This section applies if there is a GHG storage reservoir in the area of a GHG tenure.
The holder of the GHG tenure must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG stream storage capacity report ) about the storage capacity of the GHG storage reservoir for each 6-month period for the tenure.
The report must be given to the chief executive within 40 business days after the end of the 6-month period.
The report must contain the following information—
the type and number of the GHG tenure;
an identification of each GHG storage reservoir in which there is available capacity to store a GHG stream;
the estimated volume of storage capacity in each GHG storage reservoir in the area of the tenure worked out on the first day and last day of the period;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
s 22 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 68
(sec.22-ssec.1) This section applies if there is a GHG storage reservoir in the area of a GHG tenure.
(sec.22-ssec.2) The holder of the GHG tenure must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG stream storage capacity report ) about the storage capacity of the GHG storage reservoir for each 6-month period for the tenure.
(sec.22-ssec.3) The report must be given to the chief executive within 40 business days after the end of the 6-month period.
(sec.22-ssec.4) The report must contain the following information— the type and number of the GHG tenure; an identification of each GHG storage reservoir in which there is available capacity to store a GHG stream; the estimated volume of storage capacity in each GHG storage reservoir in the area of the tenure worked out on the first day and last day of the period; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(a) the type and number of the GHG tenure;
(b) an identification of each GHG storage reservoir in which there is available capacity to store a GHG stream;
(c) the estimated volume of storage capacity in each GHG storage reservoir in the area of the tenure worked out on the first day and last day of the period;
(d) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
sec.23
GHG stream storage injection report
sec.23 GHG stream storage injection report
A holder of a GHG lease must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG stream storage injection report ) about the injection of a GHG stream or water into a GHG storage site for each 6-month period for the lease.
The report must be given to the chief executive within 40 business days after the end of the 6-month period.
The report must contain the following information—
the number of the lease;
an identification of each GHG stream storage site into which a GHG stream or water was injected under the lease for the 6-month period;
the volume of GHG stream injected into each GHG storage site in the area of the lease for the 6-month period;
for each GHG storage reservoir into which a GHG stream is injected under the lease—the number of GHG wells injecting a GHG storage stream into the reservoir;
the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the GHG streams injected into each GHG storage reservoir;
an assessment of whether there is a risk of a serious situation arising for any GHG storage reservoir under the lease;
an assessment of any risks to public health or the environment associated with GHG stream storage under the lease;
how any risks mentioned in paragraph (f) or (g) are being mitigated;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
s 23 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 69
(sec.23-ssec.1) A holder of a GHG lease must give the chief executive in the required way a report (a GHG stream storage injection report ) about the injection of a GHG stream or water into a GHG storage site for each 6-month period for the lease.
(sec.23-ssec.2) The report must be given to the chief executive within 40 business days after the end of the 6-month period.
(sec.23-ssec.3) The report must contain the following information— the number of the lease; an identification of each GHG stream storage site into which a GHG stream or water was injected under the lease for the 6-month period; the volume of GHG stream injected into each GHG storage site in the area of the lease for the 6-month period; for each GHG storage reservoir into which a GHG stream is injected under the lease—the number of GHG wells injecting a GHG storage stream into the reservoir; the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the GHG streams injected into each GHG storage reservoir; an assessment of whether there is a risk of a serious situation arising for any GHG storage reservoir under the lease; an assessment of any risks to public health or the environment associated with GHG stream storage under the lease; how any risks mentioned in paragraph (f) or (g) are being mitigated; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(a) the number of the lease;
(b) an identification of each GHG stream storage site into which a GHG stream or water was injected under the lease for the 6-month period;
(c) the volume of GHG stream injected into each GHG storage site in the area of the lease for the 6-month period;
(d) for each GHG storage reservoir into which a GHG stream is injected under the lease—the number of GHG wells injecting a GHG storage stream into the reservoir;
(e) the operations and techniques being used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the GHG streams injected into each GHG storage reservoir;
(f) an assessment of whether there is a risk of a serious situation arising for any GHG storage reservoir under the lease;
(g) an assessment of any risks to public health or the environment associated with GHG stream storage under the lease;
(h) how any risks mentioned in paragraph (f) or (g) are being mitigated;
(i) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
pt.6
Samples
Samples
sec.24
Keeping samples
sec.24 Keeping samples
For section 258 (1) of the Act , the samples to be kept are the samples mentioned in sections 25 to 27 .
A sample must be kept until the later of the following—
the day the term of the GHG tenure ends;
the day the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 259 of the Act .
A sample must be kept in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration or loss of the sample.
(sec.24-ssec.1) For section 258 (1) of the Act , the samples to be kept are the samples mentioned in sections 25 to 27 .
(sec.24-ssec.2) A sample must be kept until the later of the following— the day the term of the GHG tenure ends; the day the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 259 of the Act .
(sec.24-ssec.3) A sample must be kept in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration or loss of the sample.
(a) the day the term of the GHG tenure ends;
(b) the day the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 259 of the Act .
sec.25
Cutting samples
sec.25 Cutting samples
A holder of a GHG tenure must, for each GHG well drilled under the tenure, keep the cutting samples of the geological formations penetrated by the drill for each interval mentioned in subsection (2) .
For subsection (1) , the intervals are—
each 10m interval, or part of a 10m interval, from the surface to as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation nearest to the surface that is likely to contain a GHG storage reservoir; and
each 3m interval, or part of a 3m interval, from as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation mentioned in paragraph (a) to the bottom of the well.
The part of the sample given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must—
be between 250g and 500g in weight; and
be washed and dried; and
be given in a labelled container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states—
the identifying name of the GHG well from which the sample was taken; and
the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was taken.
In this section—
cutting sample means a sample of the cuttings produced by the drilling of the well.
(sec.25-ssec.1) A holder of a GHG tenure must, for each GHG well drilled under the tenure, keep the cutting samples of the geological formations penetrated by the drill for each interval mentioned in subsection (2) .
(sec.25-ssec.2) For subsection (1) , the intervals are— each 10m interval, or part of a 10m interval, from the surface to as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation nearest to the surface that is likely to contain a GHG storage reservoir; and each 3m interval, or part of a 3m interval, from as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation mentioned in paragraph (a) to the bottom of the well.
(sec.25-ssec.3) The part of the sample given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must— be between 250g and 500g in weight; and be washed and dried; and be given in a labelled container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states— the identifying name of the GHG well from which the sample was taken; and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was taken.
(sec.25-ssec.4) In this section— cutting sample means a sample of the cuttings produced by the drilling of the well.
(a) each 10m interval, or part of a 10m interval, from the surface to as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation nearest to the surface that is likely to contain a GHG storage reservoir; and
(b) each 3m interval, or part of a 3m interval, from as close as practicable to the top of the geological formation mentioned in paragraph (a) to the bottom of the well.
(a) be between 250g and 500g in weight; and
(b) be washed and dried; and
(c) be given in a labelled container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states— (i) the identifying name of the GHG well from which the sample was taken; and (ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was taken.
(i) the identifying name of the GHG well from which the sample was taken; and
(ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was taken.
(i) the identifying name of the GHG well from which the sample was taken; and
(ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was taken.
sec.26
Core samples
sec.26 Core samples
A holder of a GHG tenure must keep each core recovered from a GHG well under the GHG tenure.
The part of the core given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must—
be at least 50% of the core recovered; and
have as complete a vertical face as is practicable; and
be given in a labelled box or other container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states—
the identifying name of the well from which the core was recovered; and
if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; and
the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval cored; and
the length in metres of the core recovered.
(sec.26-ssec.1) A holder of a GHG tenure must keep each core recovered from a GHG well under the GHG tenure.
(sec.26-ssec.2) The part of the core given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must— be at least 50% of the core recovered; and have as complete a vertical face as is practicable; and be given in a labelled box or other container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states— the identifying name of the well from which the core was recovered; and if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval cored; and the length in metres of the core recovered.
(a) be at least 50% of the core recovered; and
(b) have as complete a vertical face as is practicable; and
(c) be given in a labelled box or other container suitable for long-term storage and handling that states— (i) the identifying name of the well from which the core was recovered; and (ii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; and (iii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval cored; and (iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.
(i) the identifying name of the well from which the core was recovered; and
(ii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; and
(iii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval cored; and
(iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.
(i) the identifying name of the well from which the core was recovered; and
(ii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; and
(iii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval cored; and
(iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.
sec.27
Fluid samples
sec.27 Fluid samples
This section applies if the holder of a GHG tenure recovers a sample (a fluid sample ) of liquid petroleum from a GHG well under the tenure and the sample is more than 10L.
The holder must keep the fluid sample.
The fluid sample given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must be given in a labelled glass bottle that is teflon-sealed with a screw-top that states—
the identifying name of the well; and
the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was recovered; and
the day on which the sample was recovered; and
the method by which the sample was recovered.
(sec.27-ssec.1) This section applies if the holder of a GHG tenure recovers a sample (a fluid sample ) of liquid petroleum from a GHG well under the tenure and the sample is more than 10L.
(sec.27-ssec.2) The holder must keep the fluid sample.
(sec.27-ssec.3) The fluid sample given to the chief executive under section 259 (1) of the Act must be given in a labelled glass bottle that is teflon-sealed with a screw-top that states— the identifying name of the well; and the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was recovered; and the day on which the sample was recovered; and the method by which the sample was recovered.
(a) the identifying name of the well; and
(b) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the sample was recovered; and
(c) the day on which the sample was recovered; and
(d) the method by which the sample was recovered.
pt.7
Confidentiality periods for required information
Confidentiality periods for required information
sec.28
Confidentiality periods for required information for GHG authorities
sec.28 Confidentiality periods for required information for GHG authorities
For section 261 (2) of the Act , the confidentiality period for the required information mentioned in schedule 1AA , column 1—
starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and
ends on the day stated in schedule 1AA , column 2 for the information.
However, there is no confidentiality period for a well abandonment report for a GHG well if—
the report is to be made available to a person under section 261 (1) (b) of the Act ; and
the person is the holder of a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act ; and
the GHG well was drilled in the area of the person’s tenement mentioned in paragraph (b) .
Also, there is no confidentiality period for required information not mentioned in schedule 1AA .
s 28 sub 2022 SL No. 112 s 70
amd 2025 SL No. 48 s 14 sch 1
(sec.28-ssec.1) For section 261 (2) of the Act , the confidentiality period for the required information mentioned in schedule 1AA , column 1— starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and ends on the day stated in schedule 1AA , column 2 for the information.
(sec.28-ssec.2) However, there is no confidentiality period for a well abandonment report for a GHG well if— the report is to be made available to a person under section 261 (1) (b) of the Act ; and the person is the holder of a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act ; and the GHG well was drilled in the area of the person’s tenement mentioned in paragraph (b) .
(sec.28-ssec.3) Also, there is no confidentiality period for required information not mentioned in schedule 1AA .
(a) starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and
(b) ends on the day stated in schedule 1AA , column 2 for the information.
(a) the report is to be made available to a person under section 261 (1) (b) of the Act ; and
(b) the person is the holder of a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act ; and
(c) the GHG well was drilled in the area of the person’s tenement mentioned in paragraph (b) .
sec.29
Publication of required information
sec.29 Publication of required information
For section 261 (1) (a) of the Act , the chief executive may publish required information in the following ways—
in a journal published by the department or under the Minister’s authority;
in another publication considered appropriate by the chief executive;
on the department’s website;
in a publicly available database;
on a map or in other spatial information made available to the public for inspection or purchase;
in digital or electronic form, including, for example, on a disc or tape;
by displaying the information on a notice that is available to the public for inspection at—
the department’s head office; and
other places the chief executive considers appropriate;
by telling the information to another person or presenting it to the person in a visual form.
(a) in a journal published by the department or under the Minister’s authority;
(b) in another publication considered appropriate by the chief executive;
(c) on the department’s website;
(d) in a publicly available database;
(e) on a map or in other spatial information made available to the public for inspection or purchase;
(f) in digital or electronic form, including, for example, on a disc or tape;
(g) by displaying the information on a notice that is available to the public for inspection at— (i) the department’s head office; and (ii) other places the chief executive considers appropriate;
(i) the department’s head office; and
(ii) other places the chief executive considers appropriate;
(h) by telling the information to another person or presenting it to the person in a visual form.
(i) the department’s head office; and
(ii) other places the chief executive considers appropriate;
pt.8
Financial provisions
Financial provisions
sec.30
Annual rent
sec.30 Annual rent
For sections 86 (1) , 168 (1) and 243 (1) of the Act , the annual rent payable for a GHG authority is stated in schedule 1 .
If the period to which the annual rent relates is less than a year, a pro-rata amount of the rent is payable for the year.
If the annual rent for a GHG authority is paid for a year and the authority ends during the year, the proportion of the annual rent for the remainder of the year may be refunded.
(sec.30-ssec.1) For sections 86 (1) , 168 (1) and 243 (1) of the Act , the annual rent payable for a GHG authority is stated in schedule 1 .
(sec.30-ssec.2) If the period to which the annual rent relates is less than a year, a pro-rata amount of the rent is payable for the year.
(sec.30-ssec.3) If the annual rent for a GHG authority is paid for a year and the authority ends during the year, the proportion of the annual rent for the remainder of the year may be refunded.
sec.31
When annual rent must be paid
sec.31 When annual rent must be paid
For sections 86 (2) , 168 (2) and 243 (2) of the Act , the annual rent for a GHG authority must be paid on or before 31 August each year.
However, on the grant of the authority, the annual rent must be paid within 20 business days after the authority takes effect.
Subsection (2) does not apply on the grant of the authority if the Minister has already required payment of the annual rent.
See the Act , sections 39 (1) , 96 (5) , 129 (1) and 235 (3) for when the Minister may have already required payment of annual rent for the authority.
(sec.31-ssec.1) For sections 86 (2) , 168 (2) and 243 (2) of the Act , the annual rent for a GHG authority must be paid on or before 31 August each year.
(sec.31-ssec.2) However, on the grant of the authority, the annual rent must be paid within 20 business days after the authority takes effect.
(sec.31-ssec.3) Subsection (2) does not apply on the grant of the authority if the Minister has already required payment of the annual rent. See the Act , sections 39 (1) , 96 (5) , 129 (1) and 235 (3) for when the Minister may have already required payment of annual rent for the authority.
sec.32
Way to pay annual rent
sec.32 Way to pay annual rent
For sections 86 (2) , 168 (2) and 243 (2) of the Act , the annual rent must be paid by cash or electronic transfer of funds.
sec.33
Security for GHG authorities
sec.33 Security for GHG authorities
For section 271 (2) (a) of the Act , the following forms of security are prescribed—
cash;
electronic transfer of funds;
an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that—
is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and
has no expiry day; and
states the type and number of the GHG authority or proposed GHG authority; and
states the address of the financial institution; and
is signed for the financial institution by an officer who has authority to sign the security;
a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c) .
For section 271 (2) (b) of the Act , the following amounts are prescribed—
for a GHG permit or proposed GHG permit—$16,350;
for a GHG lease or proposed GHG lease—$47,690;
for a GHG data acquisition authority or proposed GHG data acquisition authority—$14,305.
s 33 amd 2022 SL No. 47 s 10 ; 2025 SL No. 48 s 6
(sec.33-ssec.1) For section 271 (2) (a) of the Act , the following forms of security are prescribed— cash; electronic transfer of funds; an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that— is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and has no expiry day; and states the type and number of the GHG authority or proposed GHG authority; and states the address of the financial institution; and is signed for the financial institution by an officer who has authority to sign the security; a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c) .
(sec.33-ssec.2) For section 271 (2) (b) of the Act , the following amounts are prescribed— for a GHG permit or proposed GHG permit—$16,350; for a GHG lease or proposed GHG lease—$47,690; for a GHG data acquisition authority or proposed GHG data acquisition authority—$14,305.
(a) cash;
(b) electronic transfer of funds;
(c) an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that— (i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and (ii) has no expiry day; and (iii) states the type and number of the GHG authority or proposed GHG authority; and (iv) states the address of the financial institution; and (v) is signed for the financial institution by an officer who has authority to sign the security;
(i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and
(ii) has no expiry day; and
(iii) states the type and number of the GHG authority or proposed GHG authority; and
(iv) states the address of the financial institution; and
(v) is signed for the financial institution by an officer who has authority to sign the security;
(d) a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c) .
(i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and
(ii) has no expiry day; and
(iii) states the type and number of the GHG authority or proposed GHG authority; and
(iv) states the address of the financial institution; and
(v) is signed for the financial institution by an officer who has authority to sign the security;
(a) for a GHG permit or proposed GHG permit—$16,350;
(b) for a GHG lease or proposed GHG lease—$47,690;
(c) for a GHG data acquisition authority or proposed GHG data acquisition authority—$14,305.
sec.34
Interest rate
sec.34 Interest rate
For section 372 (2) of the Act , the rate of interest is 15% a year.
sec.35
Fees
sec.35 Fees
The fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 2 .
pt.9
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
sec.36
Way for making application, lodging document or making submission
sec.36 Way for making application, lodging document or making submission
For section 411 (2) (b) of the Act , the prescribed way for making or giving an application, document or submission is electronically using the online system on the department’s website.
Also, the chief executive may, by notice given to the person, require the person to give a hard copy of the application, submission or document at a place mentioned in section 411 (2) (a) of the Act .
If a person makes or gives an application, submission or document electronically after 4.30p.m. on a working day and before 8.30a.m. on the next working day (the later day ), the person is taken to have made or given the application, submission or document at 8.30a.m. on the later day.
(sec.36-ssec.1) For section 411 (2) (b) of the Act , the prescribed way for making or giving an application, document or submission is electronically using the online system on the department’s website.
(sec.36-ssec.2) Also, the chief executive may, by notice given to the person, require the person to give a hard copy of the application, submission or document at a place mentioned in section 411 (2) (a) of the Act .
(sec.36-ssec.3) If a person makes or gives an application, submission or document electronically after 4.30p.m. on a working day and before 8.30a.m. on the next working day (the later day ), the person is taken to have made or given the application, submission or document at 8.30a.m. on the later day.
pt.10
Repeal and transitional provisions
Repeal and transitional provisions
pt.10-div.1
Repeal
Repeal
sec.37
Repeal
sec.37 Repeal
The Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2010 , SL No. 58 is repealed.
pt.10-div.2
Transitional provision
Transitional provision
sec.38
Existing daily drilling reports
sec.38 Existing daily drilling reports
For section 16(3)(h), a daily drilling report for a well includes a daily drilling report under the repealed Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2010 , section 15.
pt.10-div.3
Transitional provision for Geothermal Energy Regulation 2022
Transitional provision for Geothermal Energy Regulation 2022
sec.39
Required information given before commencement
sec.39 Required information given before commencement
Section 28 applies to required information mentioned in that section given to the chief executive before the commencement if, on the commencement, the information has not been published under section 261 (1) of the Act .
s 39 ins 2022 SL No. 112 s 71
sch.2-pt.1
GHG authority fees
GHG authority fees
sch.2-pt.2
General GHG authority fees payable under chapter 5 of the Act
General GHG authority fees payable under chapter 5 of the Act
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This regulation may be cited as the Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2021 .
sec.2 Definitions
sec.2 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 3 defines particular words used in this regulation.
pt.2 Requirements for work programs and development plans
Requirements for work programs and development plans
sec.3 Matters for proposed initial work programs
sec.3 Matters for proposed initial work programs
For section 53 (1) (g) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed—
a description of the geological model for the area of the proposed GHG permit;
an assessment of the potential for the discovery of a GHG storage site in the area of the proposed GHG permit;
the rationale, in relation to the geological model for the area, for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed GHG permit.
(a) a description of the geological model for the area of the proposed GHG permit;
(b) an assessment of the potential for the discovery of a GHG storage site in the area of the proposed GHG permit;
(c) the rationale, in relation to the geological model for the area, for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed GHG permit.
sec.4 Matters for proposed initial development plans
sec.4 Matters for proposed initial development plans
For section 141 (1) (g) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed—
any likely conflict between an authorised activity to be carried out under the proposed GHG lease and another authorised activity carried out under an authority, however called, under another resource Act;
details, including the location, type and size, of any planned infrastructure intended to be located within the area of the proposed GHG lease.
plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
(a) any likely conflict between an authorised activity to be carried out under the proposed GHG lease and another authorised activity carried out under an authority, however called, under another resource Act;
(b) details, including the location, type and size, of any planned infrastructure intended to be located within the area of the proposed GHG lease. Examples of infrastructure— • plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks • temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
Fixes sample retention and submission rules for cuttings, cores and fluid samples, including sizes, labelling and the period for which samples must be kept (s.24-s.27).
Sets confidentiality periods and limited exceptions, and lists methods by which the chief executive may publish required information (s.28-s.29).
Prescribes financial mechanics: annual rent references to schedule 1, payment dates and methods (cash or electronic), security forms and amounts for different authorities, an interest rate for late payments and reference to fees in schedule 2 (s.30-s.35).
Provides administrative rules for electronic lodgement and the chief executive’s power to require hard copies, and transitional and repeal provisions (s.36, s.37-s.39).
The regulation therefore converts broad Act obligations into specific requirements that shape the behaviour of tenure holders and service providers: it determines what data must be collected, how frequently it must be delivered, in what units and formats, and what financial and security instruments must be in place.
Main concepts
The regulation organises obligations around a small set of recurring regulatory concepts: required content for statutory plans and reports; timeframes and formats for notices and submissions; data retention and transfer; confidentiality and publication rules; financial obligations and securities; and prescribed sample protocols.
Required content: Several provisions list near‑exhaustive content obligations. For example, a proposed initial work program must include a description of the geological model for the permit area, an assessment of potential for discovery of a storage site and the rationale for activities proposed in reliance on the model (s.3). A proposed initial development plan must identify likely conflicts with other resource authorities and the location, type and size of planned infrastructure, with non‑exhaustive examples supplied (s.4). A GHG storage injection testing plan must present the composition of the injected substance, volumes, injection rate, expected migration pathway, monitoring techniques and a health and environment risk assessment with mitigation (s.6).
Timeframes and formats: Notices and reports are tightly timetabled. Notices of intention to drill or to run surveys must be given at least 10 business days before the activity (s.11, s.13). Completion and abandonment notices must be supplied within 10 business days of the relevant event (s.12). Daily drilling records must be kept contemporaneously (s.15). Specific reports carry fixed windows: well completion reports must be supplied within 12 months after the rig release day (s.16); well abandonment reports within 6 months after completion unless tied to the completion report (s.17); seismic survey reports within 2 years (s.18); scientific/technical survey reports within 12 months (s.19); GHG injection testing reports and various 6‑monthly GHG storage reports within 40 business days after the relevant period or testing end (s.21-s.23).
Data, samples and units: The regulation prescribes digital delivery for many items and specifies units and sample sizes. Seismic and survey reports must be accompanied by raw data and processed data in digital form, together with supporting metadata such as seismic line lists and surveyed positions (s.18, s.19). Volumes of GHG streams must be reported in millions of cubic metres; water volumes in megalitres (s.20). Sample retention rules require cuttings at set intervals, core retention and the handing over of labelled portions to the chief executive with prescribed minimum quantities and labelling statements (s.25-s.27).
Confidentiality and publication: The regulation fixes confidentiality periods for required information starting on the day the information is given, using schedule 1AA to state end dates, and sets narrow exceptions (for example, access to well abandonment reports by coal or oil shale mining tenement holders in particular circumstances) (s.28). It lists publication channels the chief executive may use, from departmental journals and websites to maps and databases (s.29).
Financial mechanics: Annual rent references are linked to schedule 1, with payment due on or before 31 August each year and, on grant, within 20 business days unless the Minister has already required payment (s.30-s.31). Payments must be cash or electronic transfer (s.32). Security can be cash, electronic transfer, or an unconditional demand security from a financial institution meeting prescribed content and execution requirements, and specific security amounts are prescribed for permits, leases and data acquisition authorities (s.33). The prescribed interest rate for late payments is 15% a year (s.34). Fees are in schedule 2 (s.35).
Delegation by reference: The regulation frequently refers to "the relevant direction" and to schedules not reproduced here. That mechanism reserves to the department additional, potentially changeable detail outside the principal text (eg, “any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report” appears repeatedly: s.7, s.15, s.16, s.17, s.18, s.19, s.21-s.23).
Together, these concepts structure how tenure holders convert exploration, testing and storage operations into a stream of statutory deliverables and financial obligations.
Who it affects
The regulation repeatedly identifies specific actors and roles and thereby defines who bears duties and who receives information.
Primary regulated parties
Holders of GHG tenures and GHG authorities: obligations attach to the holder of a GHG tenure, including holders of GHG permits, GHG leases and GHG data acquisition authorities. The holder must deliver plans, notices and periodic reports (eg, s.11, s.15, s.21-s.23, s.24-s.27).
Operators of wells: the well completion report requires the name and postal address of the operator (s.16), and operators will be the practical party managing report generation and data capture.
Contractors engaged by holders: where a contractor carries out survey activities, the holder must provide a copy of any contractor report given to the holder with seismic survey reports (s.18(4)(b)).
Administrative recipients and decision‑makers
The chief executive: the regulation designates the chief executive as the repository and recipient of notices, reports and samples. Time windows for delivery to the chief executive are set throughout (eg, s.11, s.12, s.16, s.18).
The Minister: the regulation references circumstances in which the Minister may require earlier payment of rent (s.31 cross‑referencing Act sections).
Third parties with particular access rights
Holders of coal or oil shale mining tenements under the Mineral Resources Act: s.28(2) creates a specific disclosure route, so mining tenement holders may obtain well abandonment reports in certain circumstances (s.28).
Persons who may inspect or purchase published spatial information or data via channels listed in s.29: the chief executive may publish required information by departmental journals, the department website, public databases, maps and spatial products (s.29).
Institutions providing financial instruments
Financial institutions issuing unconditional securities: prescribed security forms require an unconditional security in favour of the State of Queensland with no expiry, particular content and execution by an authorised officer (s.33).
Ancillary affected groups
Survey teams and data managers: obligations to deliver raw data, processed data and digital files under s.18 and s.19 impose obligations on those who acquire and process seismic and survey data.
Sample storage and laboratory services: sample retention and preparation requirements (washing, drying, labelling, container type) impose operational burdens on those who handle cuttings, cores and fluids (s.25-s.27).
Who decides
The chief executive decides on receipt, publication, and may require hard copies even where the regulation prescribes electronic lodgement (s.29, s.36). The Minister retains some payment‑timing authority via the Act cross‑references noted in s.31.
In short, the regulation primarily affects holders and operators of GHG tenures and their service providers, the chief executive as the administrative counterparty, financial institutions providing securities, and specific third parties (mining tenement holders) who may obtain otherwise confidential information in specified cases.
Key duties and rights
This section enumerates principal statutory duties created or specified by the regulation, together with administrative rights it confers on the department.
Duties to prepare and include prescribed content in statutory plans and applications
Initial work programs: must present a geological model, an assessment of discovery potential and a rationale for proposed activities tied to that model (s.3).
Initial development plans: must identify likely conflicts with other resource Act authorities and set out the location, type and size of planned infrastructure within the lease area with illustrative examples (s.4).
Site plans for GHG stream storage: must identify each relevant petroleum well and water bore that intersects or may intersect the site, and address impacts and mitigation (s.5).
Test plans for injection testing: must detail where and how testing will be done, the substance composition, volumes, injection rates, expected migration pathways, monitoring techniques, risk assessment and mitigation (s.6).
Duties to give notices and maintain contemporaneous records
Notification of intention to drill: notice to chief executive at least 10 business days before drilling and a proposed identifying name that must not duplicate existing registered well names (s.11).
Notice of events: completion, changes in completion configuration or abandonment must be notified within 10 business days after the event (s.12).
Notices for seismic or other surveys: at least 10 business days’ notice in approved form with spatial information and unique survey name (s.13). Completion notices required within 10 business days after survey completion (s.14).
Daily drilling reports: must be kept for each drilling day and include a prescriptive list of items (rig type, depth, bits, fluids, casing, cement intervals, deviation survey results, core descriptions, etc.) (s.15).
Duties to prepare and provide reports on fixed schedules and content
Well completion report: supplied within 12 months after the rig release day, very detailed content, digital attachments required such as raw wireline logs and core images (s.16).
Well abandonment reports: timing depends on whether abandonment completes before rig release or later; report content includes equipment left in well, cement methods and an assessment of impacts for underground mining safety (s.17).
Seismic and scientific survey reports: seismic within 2 years and scientific/technical within 12 months; both require raw and processed digital data and spatial metadata (s.18-s.19).
GHG storage reports: injection testing report within 40 business days after testing ends; 6‑monthly storage capacity reports and 6‑monthly GHG stream injection reports due within 40 business days after period end (s.21-s.23).
Relinquishment, surrender and end‑of‑tenure reports: prescribed content for relinquishment reports (s.7), end of tenure (s.8) and surrender application reports for leases (s.9).
Duties on sample collection, preservation and submission
Cutting samples: keep cuttings at defined intervals (10m and 3m) and provide labelled washed and dried portions of 250-500g to the chief executive when required (s.25).
Core samples: retain each core; the portion to give must be at least 50% of the core, with as complete a vertical face as practicable, in labelled suitable containers stating well identity, core number and depths (s.26).
Fluid samples: if liquid petroleum sample exceeds 10L, keep and provide a Teflon‑sealed glass bottle labelled with well identity, depth interval, date and recovery method (s.27).
Retention period: samples must be kept until the later of the tenure end or the day the sample or part is given to the chief executive (s.24).
Financial duties and security rights
Annual rent: payable as stated in schedule 1, pro rata for partial years and refundable in part if authority ends during a year (s.30).
Payment timing: generally payable by 31 August each year; on grant, payable within 20 business days after the authority takes effect unless the Minister required earlier payment (s.31).
Payment method: cash or electronic transfer (s.32).
Securities: prescribed forms include cash, electronic transfer, or unconditional bank security with specified content and no expiry date; prescribed amounts for permit, lease and data acquisition authority are set out ($16,350 for permits, $47,690 for leases, $14,305 for data acquisition authorities) (s.33).
Interest: late payment interest fixed at 15% per annum (s.34).
Fees: fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 2 (s.35).
Administrative rights of the department and chief executive
Publication and disclosure: the chief executive may publish required information by a variety of channels (s.29).
Power to require hard copies: even where electronic lodgement is prescribed, the chief executive may require a hard copy by notice (s.36).
Delegated detail via directions and schedules: the regulation repeatedly defers to "the relevant direction" and schedules for additional matters, creating administrative levers for further specification (eg, s.7, s.15, s.16, s.18-s.19, s.21-s.23).
Rights and constraints around confidentiality
Confidentiality periods commence on delivery and end as set in schedule 1AA, but there are explicit exceptions for certain well abandonment reports where mining tenement holders under the Mineral Resources Act have access (s.28).
Collectively, the duties require comprehensive technical data capture, digital data management, periodic reporting, secure financial arrangements and compliance with precise sample and labelling rules. The chief executive is endowed with rights to receive, publish and demand additional formats or copies.
Penalties and enforcement
The regulation sets administrative compliance requirements, financial obligations and documentary standards. It does not itself enumerate criminal penalties or civil sanctions; those are contained in the principal Act. The regulation provides a set of enforcement levers and friction points that interact with the Act’s enforcement architecture.
Enforcement levers explicit in the regulation
Financial security and interest: the regulation prescribes security forms and amounts (s.33) and an interest rate on overdue sums (15% per annum) (s.34). These provisions enable financial enforcement by retaining security and applying interest where payments are late, subject to the Act’s collection powers.
Data and sample retention and transfer: the chief executive has a statutory right to receive specified samples and raw digital survey data (s.16, s.18, s.19, s.25-s.27). Failure to provide required data or samples will leave a holder non‑compliant with express regulation obligations; consequences for non‑compliance fall back to Act remedies.
Publication and disclosure: the chief executive may publish required information and make it publicly available by multiple channels (s.29). Publication can be an administrative response to non‑cooperation or the effect of information law; the regulation does not prescribe sanctions for failure to publish by the department.
Directions and schedule mechanisms: repeated reference to "the relevant direction" and schedules gives the department administrative scope to require further detail or impose additional reporting requirements. Non‑compliance with a direction may engage Act penalties.
Implicit enforcement mechanisms
Timing rules (eg, 10 business days’ notice, 40 business days for certain reports, 12 months for completion reports) create objective breaches of the regulation if not met; the Act will determine remedies and penalties.
Naming and register requirements (unique well and survey names) create administrative gates; the register authority (the chief executive) controls name acceptance (s.11, s.13).
What the regulation does not do
The text does not set out specific fines, suspension powers, or prosecution provisions. It therefore relies on the Act for penalty provisions and enforcement processes. Where those penalties or enforcement tools exist, they will be triggered by failure to meet the obligations detailed in this regulation.
Practical enforcement risks for holders
Financial exposure: missing rent deadlines or failing to lodge security exposes a holder to interest charges and potential interception of security funds (s.33-s.34).
Operational disruption: failure to deliver required survey raw data, digital files or sample portions may impede the regulator’s decision‑making and expose the holder to remedial directions under the Act.
Confidentiality loss: narrow exceptions to confidentiality (eg, well abandonment reports accessible to certain mining tenement holders) mean holders should expect some disclosures even for otherwise protected material (s.28).
In sum, the regulation creates a dense set of administrative obligations that are enforceable through the Act’s penalty framework, supported by financial instruments, data submission rights and publication capabilities vested in the chief executive.
How it interacts with other laws
The regulation is an implementing instrument for the principal Act and cross‑references several other Acts and subordinate instruments. Its interactions impose obligations that can overlap with, or be constrained by, other resource and data regimes.
Cross‑references to the principal Act
Almost every substantive requirement in the regulation is prescribed "for" a specified section of the Act. For example, matters for initial work programs are prescribed for s.53(1)(g) of the Act (s.3), and matters for initial development plans are prescribed for s.141(1)(g) of the Act (s.4). Reporting and sample obligations are prescribed for the Act’s reporting and sample‑keeping provisions, making the regulation an integral implementation tool.
Interactions with mining and petroleum regimes
Mineral Resources Act: s.28(2) provides a specific exception to confidentiality for well abandonment reports where the person requesting the report is a holder of a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act and the GHG well was drilled in the area of that tenement. That creates a direct data flow between GHG tenure data and mining tenement holders, driven by safety or operational concerns.
Petroleum and Gas Act and Geothermal Act: the well abandonment report requires reporting of intersections with "natural underground reservoir under the P&G Act" and intersections with exploration bores under the Geothermal Act; well completion reports must note intersections with petroleum wells and exploration bores under the Geothermal Act (s.16, s.17). These cross‑references incorporate petroleum and geothermal resource interfaces into the GHG regulatory regime.
Interactions with administrative and information law
Publication authority (s.29) interacts with information disclosure regimes and the Act’s confidentiality provisions (s.28). The regulation’s prescribed publication channels overlay any general information access regime the department must follow.
The regulation’s repeated reliance on "the relevant direction" and schedules implies interaction with subordinate administrative instruments which may be made under the Act. Those instruments will determine operational detail and can therefore update compliance obligations without further primary regulation amendment.
Electrical and digital standards
The regulation prescribes digital submission of raw data, processed data, grid files, and spatial information (s.18-s.19). These prescriptions will interact with standards for spatial data, digital record formats and metadata in other departmental protocols. The regulation does not itself set file format standards but mandates digital delivery.
Financial and banking law interactions
The prescribed unconditional bank security (s.33) must be in favour of the State of Queensland, payable on demand, have no expiry and include specified content. That interacts with banking contract law and provider risk appetite; banks must be willing to issue securities that meet these content and no‑expiry stipulations.
Transitional and repeal interactions
The regulation repeals the Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2010 (s.37) and contains transitional provisions treating earlier‑given required information under the new confidentiality rules (s.38-s.39). It therefore replaces and migrates regulatory obligations from the 2010 instrument to the 2021 text and later amendments.
In summary, the regulation operates as an Act‑dependent instrument that integrates GHG storage regulation with mining, petroleum and geothermal regulatory frameworks, administrative publication regimes and financial security practices. Practitioners must check related Acts and subordinate directions or schedules for the full compliance picture.
Amendment history
The regulation text includes a number of explicit amendment annotations. The instrument itself repealed the earlier 2010 regulation and the schedule footnotes track post‑enactment modifications. The amendments recorded in the provided text are:
Repeal of the Greenhouse Gas Storage Regulation 2010: s.37 records that SL No. 58 (2010) is repealed.
Amendments recorded with statutory instrument numbers:
s.24 (keeping samples) , annotated "s 24 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 70" (the footnote appears at s.28 in the provided text and indicates substitution).
s.28 (confidentiality periods) , annotated "s 28 sub 2022 SL No. 112 s 70" and "amd 2025 SL No. 48 s 14 sch 1" indicating a 2025 amendment.
s.33 (security for GHG authorities) , annotated "s 33 amd 2022 SL No. 47 s 10 ; 2025 SL No. 48 s 6" showing amendments across 2022 and 2025.
s.18, s.21, and other sections carry 2022 amendment annotations as above.
s.10 (Purpose of part) shows an amendment: "s 10 amd 2025 SL No. 48 s 14 sch 1".
s.39 inserted by 2022 SI: "s 39 ins 2022 SL No. 112 s 71" indicating a transitional provision added by the 2022 statutory instrument.
These annotations in the text establish that the instrument has been the subject of iterative amendment since its 2021 incarnation, with at least two sets of numbered Statutory Instruments (2022 and 2025) making alterations to reporting, confidentiality scheduling and security provisions. The schedule references (schedule 1, schedule 2 and schedule 1AA) are central to the regulation but their content is not reproduced here; they will contain critical rent, fee and confidentiality period figures and must be consulted for a complete compliance and financial picture.
When advising clients, confirm the consolidated regulation and the contents of the referenced schedules and the “relevant direction” as those are the parts most likely to have been updated by subsequent subordinate instruments and departmental directions.
Litigation history
The provided regulation text contains no references to judicial decisions, case law or administrative tribunal determinations. It does not cite or summarise any litigation concerning the regulation or the operation of its provisions. Where enforcement, interpretation or challenge might arise in practice, issues will need to be litigated under the Act and relevant administrative law regimes. Any litigation history must be sought in court and tribunal records external to this text.
Practitioners should therefore not rely on precedent citations in the regulation itself. Instead, any legal disputes about interpretation, the adequacy of reports, publication decisions, or the validity of directions and schedules will be tested in courts or tribunals and are not addressed within the instrument.
Gotchas
This regulation contains numerous specific prescriptions that can create compliance risk through small operational oversights. Practical "gotchas" grounded in the text include the following.
Strict business‑day timing and differing windows
Multiple timing rules use "business days" or fixed calendar windows that vary by instrument. For example, notices of intention to drill and survey notices must be given at least 10 business days before the activity (s.11, s.13); seismic surveys must be reported within 2 years (s.18); GHG injection testing reports and 6‑monthly reports must be lodged within 40 business days after the end of the period or testing (s.21-s.23). Confusing or inconsistent counting of business days, and different deadlines for different report types, can produce unintended late lodgements.
Naming uniqueness and register collisions
Proposed identifying names for wells and surveys must not be the same or substantially the same as names already in the register (s.11, s.13). Failure to check the register before public notices can lead to re‑naming requests and public record inconsistencies.
Delegated and open‑ended "relevant direction" obligations
Many reporting provisions require "any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report" (eg, s.7, s.15, s.16, s.17, s.18-s.23). Because those directions are external to the regulation they can introduce additional content requirements after the primary regulation is made, creating compliance uncertainty unless directions are monitored.
Data delivery formats and metadata
Seismic and scientific survey reports require raw and processed data in digital form, surveyed locations, observer logs and grid files if applicable (s.18-s.19). Failure to supply complete digital datasets with the required metadata and spatial referencing will make a report non‑compliant even if the narrative component is present.
Sample size, preparation and labelling
The rule‑based sample regime prescribes intervals, sample weights and labelling details. For example, cuttings to be handed to the chief executive must be 250-500g, washed and dried and in a labelled container with well name and top/bottom depths (s.25); cores supplied must be at least 50% of the core (s.26); fluid samples over 10L must be in a Teflon‑sealed glass bottle with specified labelling (s.27). Non‑conforming packaging or labelling likely results in rejection.
Confidentiality exceptions and cross‑sector disclosure
Well abandonment reports lose confidentiality in a specific case where they are disclosed to holders of coal or oil shale mining tenements under the Mineral Resources Act if the GHG well was drilled in the tenement area (s.28(2)). Holders who expect full confidentiality should instead assume certain safety‑relevant data may be disclosed to mining operators.
Security form and no‑expiry requirement
The bank security prescribed must be unconditional, payable on demand, have no expiry day and name the GHG authority and the financial institution address, and be signed by an authorised officer of the bank (s.33). Many banks may be unwilling to issue securities without expiry dates or other commercial protections; obtaining compliant securities can be more difficult than anticipated and needs early engagement with banks.
Payment timing anomalies on grant
On grant of a GHG authority, the annual rent is due within 20 business days after the authority takes effect, unless the Minister has already required payment (s.31). A holder receiving a grant may therefore face a rapid payment deadline; ensure upfront treasury arrangements to meet that requirement.
Electronic submission plus hard copy requirement
The prescribed method for applications and documents is electronic using the department’s online system (s.36). However, the chief executive may require a hard copy by notice. Assume the possibility of dual delivery and have the capacity to produce department‑quality hard copies at short notice.
Unit and measurement pitfalls
Volumes must be reported in specific units: GHG streams in millions of cubic metres and water in megalitres (s.20). Reporting in other volume units will not meet the express prescription and may require conversion and re‑submission.
Cross‑reference dependencies
Several obligations rely on schedules and external directions (schedules 1, 1AA and 2, and "relevant directions"). Those parts often contain critical numbers and details absent from the main text. Failure to check these attachments is a common compliance error.
Taken together, these "gotchas" make it practical to implement a compliance calendar, data standards, naming registry, sample chain‑of‑custody procedures and a banking engagement strategy well before operations commence or at tender stage.
How to comply
This final section outlines a concrete compliance checklist and operational controls anchored in the regulation’s text. The items are expressed as actions tied to the specific sections that require them.
Governance and initial checks
Centralise regulatory responsibility: designate a compliance owner responsible for ensuring each deliverable (notices, reports, samples, payments) is produced and sent to the chief executive as required by the regulation.
Map obligations to a compliance calendar: create entries for each recurring and event‑driven obligation with statutory timelines calculated in business days where required (eg, s.11, s.12, s.13, s.21-s.23).
Obtain and maintain up‑to‑date copies of the relevant direction(s) and schedules (schedule 1, schedule 2, schedule 1AA) because the regulation repeatedly defers detail to them (eg, s.7, s.15, s.16, s.18-s.19, s.21-s.23, s.30, s.35, s.28).
Pre‑activity steps (work programs, development plans, test plans)
For proposed initial work programs, ensure submissions include a geological model for the permit area, an assessment of storage discovery potential and rationale for proposed activities tied to the geological model (s.3).
For proposed initial development plans, document potential conflicts with other resource authorities and provide spatially accurate infrastructure details (type, size, location) and include schematics where appropriate (s.4).
For GHG injection testing, produce a test plan covering: testing location and method, substance composition (GHG stream or water), GHG composition if applicable, volume and injection rate, expected migration pathway, monitoring methods and risk assessment with mitigation measures (s.6).
Naming and notice management
Check the register before selecting a well or survey identifying name and log proposed names to prevent duplication; submit the required 10 business day advance notices for drilling and survey activities in approved form with spatial information (s.11, s.13).
Implement a procedure to lodge completion, completion configuration changes and abandonment notices within 10 business days of the triggering event (s.12).
Data capture, daily records and sample handling
Maintain daily drilling reports contemporaneously for each drilling day with the full list of required elements (rig, depth, drill bits, fluids, casing, cement intervals, deviation surveys, core and cutting descriptions) (s.15).
Produce well completion reports within 12 months after the rig release day containing the required narrative, spatial data, well card, core images and raw geophysical logs in digital form (s.16).
If a well is plugged and abandoned, supply a well abandonment report at the same time as the completion report if the plug occurs before rig release; otherwise supply the abandonment report within 6 months after completion (s.17).
Implement sample collection standards matching the regulation: cuttings at prescribed 10m/3m intervals, washed and dried portions of 250-500g for submission, cores retained with at least 50% supplied when required and labelled, fluid samples over 10L supplied in Teflon‑sealed glass bottles with labels stating well, depths, date and recovery method (s.24-s.27).
Maintain chain‑of‑custody records for samples and digital data, and store samples in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration (s.24).
Survey and seismic data management
For seismic surveys, plan to supply a seismic survey report within 2 years of completion containing geological summary, objectives, acquisition methods, processing descriptions, interpretation and spatial information for seismic lines; accompany reports with raw and processed digital data, observer’s logs, surveyed positions and processed data graphics (s.18).
For scientific and technical surveys, supply the report within 12 months and include raw and processed data in digital form and spatial information on measurement locations (s.19).
GHG storage reporting cadence
Establish processes to compute volumes in the prescribed units: millions of cubic metres for GHG streams and megalitres for water (s.20).
For injection testing, submit a report within 40 business days after the testing ends containing detailed injection parameters, observed migration, monitoring operations, risk assessment and mitigation (s.21).
For tenures with reservoirs, file 6‑monthly storage capacity reports and 6‑monthly GHG stream injection reports within 40 business days of the period end with identification of reservoirs, estimated capacity at period start and end and details of monitoring and risk assessments (s.22-s.23).
Financial compliance and securities
Review schedule 1 and schedule 2 for annual rent and fees. Pay annual rent by 31 August each year, with the grant‑stage obligation to pay within 20 business days from effect unless the Minister has required earlier payment (s.30-s.31).
Ensure payment mechanisms are in place for cash or electronic transfers (s.32), and maintain treasury capacity to make pro rata refunds or adjustments if authorities end mid‑year (s.30).
Arrange prescribed securities early. If using an unconditional security from a financial institution, ensure it is in favour of the State of Queensland, payable on demand, has no expiry, names the authority type and number and is signed by an authorised officer (s.33). Confirm banks are willing to issue securities matching these requirements; if not, prepare to provide cash or electronic transfer alternatives.
Account for the 15% per annum interest rate on overdue amounts in internal financial models (s.34).
Confidentiality, publication and information sharing
Record confidentiality periods applicable to each type of required information using schedule 1AA and assume publication may occur through a variety of channels the chief executive selects (s.28-s.29).
Plan for the narrow exception where a well abandonment report may be disclosed to holders of coal or oil shale mining tenements if the GHG well is within the mining tenement area (s.28). Coordinate with mining counterparties if overlapping operations exist.
Administrative practices and controls
Maintain an internal register of submitted names, reports, sample transfers and security instruments to demonstrate compliance and to provide audit evidence.
Use digital recordkeeping systems capable of producing the required raw and processed data outputs and metadata for seismic and survey reports (s.18-s.19).
Maintain a template checklist for each report type that maps to the regulation’s list of required items and calls out where "relevant directions" may impose further items (eg, s.16, s.18, s.21).
Track changes to the "relevant direction" and to schedules referenced by the regulation, as those effect additional reporting detail and confidentiality end dates (refer s.7, s.15, s.16, s.18-s.19, s.21-s.23, s.28, s.30, s.35).
Contingency and stakeholder engagement
Engage early with financial institutions, contractors (especially seismic data processors), laboratories and data managers to ensure the formats and content required by the regulation can be produced and delivered within the timelines.
Where operations overlap with mining or petroleum tenements, open a line of communication with other tenure holders to anticipate data sharing obligations under s.28 and the intersection reporting requirements of s.16-s.17.
Final note: the regulation frequently defers to "relevant directions" and schedules for additional content and figures. For full compliance, obtain the consolidated regulation, schedules and any current departmental directions and maintain an update process so that changes by subordinate instrument (eg, amendments noted in 2022 and 2025) are promptly incorporated into operational practice.
Section sec.4Matters for proposed initial development plans
• plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
• temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
• plant or works, including, for example, communication systems, compressors, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, evaporation or storage ponds and tanks
• temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including, for example, mobile and temporary camps
sec.5 Information for site plans for GHG stream storage sites
sec.5 Information for site plans for GHG stream storage sites
For section 142 (3) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
details of—
each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
the impacts GHG stream storage may have on a relevant well or relevant bore;
how the impacts on a relevant well or relevant bore will be mitigated or prevented.
(a) details of— (i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and (ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
(i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
(ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
(b) the impacts GHG stream storage may have on a relevant well or relevant bore;
(c) how the impacts on a relevant well or relevant bore will be mitigated or prevented.
(i) each petroleum well (a relevant well ), other than a petroleum well mentioned in section 143 of the Act , that intersects or may intersect the site; and
(ii) each water bore (a relevant bore ) that intersects or may intersect the site;
pt.3 Requirements for proposed test plans
Requirements for proposed test plans
sec.6 Requirements for proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing
sec.6 Requirements for proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing
For sections 80 (3) and 161 (3) of the Act , a proposed test plan for GHG storage injection testing must include the following information—
where and how the proposed testing will be carried out;
details of the substance proposed to be injected, including—
whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
the operations and techniques to be used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance during the proposed testing;
an assessment of whether there is any risk to public health or the environment associated with the proposed testing;
how any risks mentioned in paragraph (d) will be mitigated or prevented.
(a) where and how the proposed testing will be carried out;
(b) details of the substance proposed to be injected, including— (i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and (ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and (iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and (iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and (v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
(i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
(iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
(v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
(c) the operations and techniques to be used to monitor and verify the behaviour of the substance during the proposed testing;
(d) an assessment of whether there is any risk to public health or the environment associated with the proposed testing;
(e) how any risks mentioned in paragraph (d) will be mitigated or prevented.
(i) whether the substance is composed of a GHG stream or water; and
(ii) if a GHG stream is proposed to be injected—information about the composition of the GHG stream; and
(iii) the proposed volume of the substance to be injected; and
(iv) the proposed rate of injection of the substance; and
(v) the expected migration pathway of the substance after its injection;
pt.4 Reporting
Reporting
sec.7 Information for relinquishment report for GHG permit
sec.7 Information for relinquishment report for GHG permit
For section 255 (1) (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed—
the permit information for the report;
the general area information for the report;
if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing—
a description of the methods used for the testing; and
information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area;
a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results;
the hazard information for the report;
the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect;
if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well;
the reason the holder has relinquished the area;
any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
In this section—
general area information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information—
spatial information showing the location of—
the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and
the relinquished area;
spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of—
each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and
each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area;
spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area;
a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas.
permit information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information—
the day the permit was granted;
the day the relinquishment takes effect;
the period of the work program for the GHG permit;
the blocks or sub-blocks that make up the relinquished area.
relinquished area , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the part of the area of the permit that is relinquished.
s 7 amd 2022 SL No. 112 s 59
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 255 (1) (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed— the permit information for the report; the general area information for the report; if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing— a description of the methods used for the testing; and information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected; a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area; a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results; the hazard information for the report; the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect; if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well; the reason the holder has relinquished the area; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(sec.7-ssec.2) In this section— general area information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information— spatial information showing the location of— the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and the relinquished area; spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of— each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit; structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area; spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area; a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas. permit information , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the following information— the day the permit was granted; the day the relinquishment takes effect; the period of the work program for the GHG permit; the blocks or sub-blocks that make up the relinquished area. relinquished area , for a relinquishment report for a GHG permit, means the part of the area of the permit that is relinquished.
(a) the permit information for the report;
(b) the general area information for the report;
(c) if the relinquished area for the permit has been used for GHG storage injection testing— (i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and (ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and
(ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(d) a description of the geological model for the relinquished area and an assessment of the potential for discovering a GHG stream storage site in the area;
(e) a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the GHG permit carried out in the relinquished area since the permit took effect and the conclusions drawn by the holder based on the results;
(f) the hazard information for the report;
(g) the volume of water produced for the authorised activities carried out in the relinquished area from each GHG well or water bore in the area for each year since the GHG permit took effect;
(h) if a GHG well has been made in the relinquished area since the permit took effect—all data or other information held by the holder that, in the holder’s reasonable opinion, may help a person to identify in the future any use that may be made of the well;
(i) the reason the holder has relinquished the area;
(j) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
(i) a description of the methods used for the testing; and
(ii) information about the substance injected for the testing, including the volume of water or GHG stream injected;
(a) spatial information showing the location of— (i) the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and (ii) the relinquished area;
(i) the area of the permit immediately before the relinquishment (the previous permit area ); and
(ii) the relinquished area;
(b) spatial information showing the location in the relinquished area of— (i) each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and (ii) each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
(i) each GHG well and water bore drilled under the permit; and
(ii) each seismic line used for a seismic survey carried out under the permit;
(c) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area;
(d) spatial information showing the leads and prospects in the relinquished area;
(e) a general description of the topographical features of the previous permit area and the relinquished area, including, for example, access to the areas.
(i) the area of the permit immediately before the
This is an opening excerpt, not the complete document.