PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Queensland government has opened up tenders for the exploration of 102 km² of tenements in the North West minerals province, inviting explorers from around the world.

The tenements are thought to be prospective for copper, gold, lead and zinc.

“Queensland is one of the world’s leading destinations for mining and resources investment, and exploration is the first step towards future jobs and regional economic development,” Minister for State Development and Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said.

The tender, which would open on Friday, was a dual first for Queensland, Lynham said; the first land release in Queensland’s first yearly exploration programme.

“The successful tenderer will to be required to meet environmental conditions and negotiate land access and compensation agreements with landholders, including any relevant native title, before on-ground exploration can commence.”

Tenders close February 2, 2017 and a decision is expected in the first half of 2017.

The inaugural exploration programme was released in July. It also includes 451 km² for petroleum and gas exploration near Surat and Injune to be released by the end of the year, and 273 km² for coal exploration between Middlemount and Blackwater in the Bowen basin in April 2017.

Lynham said the exploration forward plan provided certainty and opportunity to industry, investors and local communities.

“An annual forward programme will allow resources explorers and miners to plan ahead for future opportunities. It’s critical that we continue to encourage exploration and foster the green shoots of investment appearing in the resources sector.

“Our exploration concessions provide a 50% expenditure concession for mineral and coal explorers and as of September 1, explorers are expected to receive more than A$30-million in financial relief over the next two years.”