The Aboriginal Heritage Assistance Program helps offset the costs of Aboriginal Heritage Surveys.
The Aboriginal Heritage Assistance Program was introduced to help offset the rising costs of Aboriginal Heritage Surveys reported by the mining industry. The program runs for five years (2023-24 to 2027-28 financial years) and provides support to prospectors and explorers undertaking survey work.
The Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration has released updated guidelines that provide clear information on eligibility, the application process, and frequently asked questions.
Aboriginal Heritage Survey applicants must submit both a Form 5 - Operations Report and a Heritage Assistance Rebate Form , within 60 days of the anniversary date of the commencement of the tenement (or within any period of extension as approved under Section 162B of the Mining Act 1978).
Both forms need to be lodged together. Online submissions through the Mineral Titles Online system are preferred.
The following rebate entitlements are available:
- Prospecting Licences: up to 100 per cent of annual rent for the relevant period.
- Exploration Licences: up to 50 per cent of annual rent for the 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26 periods; and up to 25 per cent of annual rent for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 periods.
Exclusions: major producers with an annual gross production value over $600 million are not eligible for a rebate.
