Unrestricted Crown Land and Prospecting in Victoria
Unrestricted Crown land refers to areas of Crown land in Victoria where recreational prospecting is permitted under a miner’s right, without the need for additional permissions or consents, provided you comply with relevant laws and regulations. This type of land is distinct from restricted Crown land, which may include areas exempted under specific legislation (e.g., Section 7 exemptions, or Unavailable Crown Land) or reserved for other purposes.
What is Unrestricted Crown Land?
Unrestricted Crown land typically includes:
State Forests:
Some state forests are open to recreational prospecting, making them some of the most popular locations for hobbyists.
General Crown Land:
These are areas managed by the state government that do not fall under specific protections or exemptions mentioned under Section 6, 6A or 7 of the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990.
Unrestricted Crown land does not require consent from landowners or occupiers, as it is managed on behalf of the public.
Activities Allowed on Unrestricted Crown Land
If you hold a miner’s right, you are legally allowed to:
Search for Minerals: Use non-mechanical tools (e.g., gold pans, metal detectors) to prospect for minerals like gold.
Remove Minerals: If you discover gold or other minerals, you are entitled to keep and remove them, provided the area is unrestricted and not under a licence (e.g., a mining licence or prospecting licence).
Rules for Prospecting on Unrestricted Crown Land
When prospecting on unrestricted Crown land, you must:
Comply with Environmental Laws:
Avoid damaging vegetation, waterways, or ecosystems.
Do not disturb wildlife or sensitive habitats.
Respect Aboriginal Cultural Heritage:
Under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, you must avoid disturbing or removing any Aboriginal cultural heritage objects or sites.
Follow Prospecting Regulations:
Use only non-mechanical, hand-operated tools.
No explosives or large-scale excavation equipment.
Avoid Restricted Areas Within Crown Land:
Certain parts of Crown land may still be restricted for specific uses (e.g., camping areas, conservation zones, or S7-exempt areas).
For a full list of the laws surrounding Miners Rights, click here.
How to Identify Unrestricted Crown Land
To ensure you are prospecting on unrestricted Crown land:
Use GeoVic Mapping Tool:
GeoVic allows you to view detailed maps of land classifications, including areas open for prospecting.
Check for any overlaps with restricted land, such as S7-exempt areas, Unavailable Crown Land, or licenced tenements.
Consult Local Land Managers:
Contact the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action (DEECA) or local land managers for clarification.
Why Unrestricted Crown Land is Important for Prospecting
Unrestricted Crown land forms the backbone of recreational prospecting in Victoria, providing hobbyists with a legal and accessible way to connect with the state’s rich gold history. By adhering to the rules and focusing on unrestricted areas, prospectors can enjoy their activity while preserving the environment and respecting cultural heritage.
For more information on unrestricted Crown land and prospecting laws in Victoria, visit GeoVic or consult official resources from Resources Victoria.
This picture shows what Unrestricted Crown Land (Grey) looks like on Geovic:
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