16Release of blocks and application for exploration permit

16 Release of blocks and application for exploration permit (1AA) This section applies if the Minister intends to release, under section 16A, specified blocks for exploration under an exploration permit. (1) The Minister must, by notice published in a newspaper circulating throughout the Territory and on the Agency's website, invite applications for the grant of an exploration permit for any of the blocks specified in the notice. (2) The notice must include the following information: (a) the period during which applications may be made (the application period); (b) the designated number of each block specified in the notice; Petroleum Act 1984 23 (d) the place at which copies of any guidelines in relation to the making of an application are available for inspection; (da) the reasons why the specified blocks are intended to be released for exploration; (db) an invitation to give submissions on the release of the specified blocks for exploration; (dc) the period during which submissions may be made is the same as the application period; (e) any other information the Minister considers appropriate. (2A) A submission under subsection (2)(db) is limited to the following: (a) if there are other existing or proposed industries for a specified block – whether exploration of the specified block is possible at the same time; (b) whether the land of a specified block is suitable for exploration. Note for subsection (2A)(b) The submission may submit that the land is not suitable for exploration because the land is: (a) subject to intensive agriculture; or (b) of high ecological value; or (c) of high scenic value; or (d) culturally significant; or (e) of strategic importance to nearby residential areas. (3) An application for the grant of an exploration permit must contain: (a) the name and address of the applicant; and (b) the designated number of each block the subject of the application; and (c) a map clearly delineating: (i) the application area, which must not exceed 200 adjoining blocks; and (ii) the boundaries of existing exploration permit or licence areas in the immediate vicinity of the application area; and Petroleum Act 1984 24 (d) a proposed technical works programme for exploration of the blocks during each year of the term of the proposed (e) evidence of the technical and financial capacity of the programme and to comply with this Act; and (ea) evidence that the applicant or associated entity of the applicant, is an appropriate person or body to be granted an (eb) details of any matter relevant to the matters listed in section 15A(1) and (2) to which the Minister must have regard in determining whether a person is an appropriate person to hold an exploration permit; and (f) if the application is made by 2 or more persons, the proposed sharing arrangements between the applicants; and (g) the name of the designated operator and evidence of the technical capacity of the operator to carry out the proposed technical works programme; and (h) the prescribed application fee; and (i) other relevant information in support of the application. (4) A person may apply for the grant of one or more exploration permits. (5) The Minister may, by written notice to an applicant, request: (a) further information relevant to the applicant or application; or (b) an amendment or variation of the application.