The Queensland government has more than doubled the size of land for gemstone exploration and mining in the state’s Central West, unlocking opportunities for small-scale miners and outback tourism.
The expansion of the Opalton-Mayneside Restricted Area grows the designated zone to more than 592,000 hectares.
Located 75 kilometres south of Winton and 145 kilometres west of Longreach, the region is highly regarded globally for its quality opals and precious gemstones.
The move follows a thorough resource assessment by the Geological Survey of Queensland alongside extensive community consultation.
Originally established in 1991, the restricted zone was designed to safeguard the historical opal fields and guarantee access for independent fossickers and small-scale operations.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the expansion marked an important step in supporting regional economies and preserving the state’s outback heritage.
“We’ve opened up more land in Opalton-Mayneside for small-scale miners to grow their operations, increase tourism opportunities, and contribute even more to the local economy,” Last said.
“We listened to the community and identified new areas which would be suitable for opal exploration and mining, giving Queensland’s opal miners certainty and greater access to one of the state’s most promising gemstone regions.
“Queensland is known for its vast array of gemstones and this expansion builds on a proud history of opal mining in the region, ensuring that tradition can continue for generations to come.”
Local leaders have backed the expansion, with Winton Shire Council Mayor Cathy White describing the decision as a critical vote of confidence that builds long-term resilience into the outback opal sector.
Barcoo Shire Council Mayor Sally O’Neil added that the massive footprint would drive a welcome influx of grey nomads, fossickers, and international tourists to regional communities.
Member for Gregory Sean Dillon emphasised that opal mining remains woven into the cultural fabric of Western Queensland, stating the expanded boundaries give local operators long-term certainty right on their doorstep.
“It will ensure miners can continue accessing land close to home while continuing to support jobs and economic activity across Queensland,” he said.
