Mineral Resources Development Act 1995

If the Minister is of the opinion that mining operations should commence on any area of land comprised in a retention licence, the Minister, by notice in writing, may require the licensee to provide reasons for not applying for a lease.

A notice is to specify – the area of land to be subject to a lease; and the period within which the licensee is to provide reasons for not applying for a lease.

The Minister, by notice in writing, may direct the licensee to apply for a lease within a specified period if – the licensee fails to provide reasons within the specified period; or the Minister, after considering any reasons provided, is not satisfied that the licensee should not apply for a lease.

If the licensee fails to apply for a lease within the specified period or fails to fulfil the requirements of section 78A within 6 months after making an application for a lease or within any other time the Minister determines, the Minister may– revoke the licence held by the licensee; or amend it to exclude the area of land specified in a notice under subsection (2)(a).