The Northern Territory state government is delivering the most significant overhaul of the Territory’s mineral titles framework in more than 15 years, aiming to modernise and streamline the mining industry.
The Mineral Titles Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 will reduce red tape, boost regulatory efficiency and provide greater certainty for investors while upholding strict environmental safeguards.
Under the new legislation, the initial renewal period for exploration licences will triple from two years to six years.
Additionally, the previous requirement for companies to progressively reduce the size of their exploration licences during the initial grant period will be scrapped.
Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the reforms are a step toward creating a more efficient system that strengthens industry confidence and helps rebuild the Territory’s economy.
“The mining and resources sector is critical to the Territory economy, and these reforms ensure our regulatory framework is modern, efficient and fit for purpose,” Maley said.
For the extractive industry, the bill introduces enhanced operational flexibility, allowing companies to remove, process, and store materials across different mineral titles.
Complementary amendments to the Environment Protection Act 2019 will also be implemented to ensure seamless integration between environmental licensing and mineral titles administration.
For locals and tourists, the CLP Government has confirmed that recreational fossicking will remain entirely free across the Territory following extensive community consultation.
“Fossicking is part of the Territory lifestyle and a popular activity enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” Maley said, adding that unlike other Australian jurisdictions, the Territory would continue to protect the unique outdoor experience free of charge.
The Mineral Titles Act remains the cornerstone of the jurisdiction’s resources sector, and the government expects the reform will secure the essential infrastructure and construction materials needed to build the Territory’s future.
“These practical reforms will help industry operate more efficiently and support the continued supply of essential construction and infrastructure materials needed to build the Territory,” Maley said.
