Geology and exploration

Apply for a petroleum exploration permit tender 2025

2025 petroleum exploration permit areas – Otway and Gippsland basins

The Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources is inviting tender applications for petroleum exploration permits in 2 areas:

  • Area VIC/25-1 – offshore Otway Basin (Victorian waters)
  • Area VIC/25-2 – onshore Gippsland Basin.

The petroleum industry identified these areas as having the most interest for exploration.

Applications for the offshore block VIC/25-1 that use existing seismic data and do not propose new seismic testing will be preferred.

Area VIC25-1

Area VIC25-2

Engagement with Registered Aboriginal Parties and Traditional Owners

Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) hold cultural responsibilities under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 for land and sea Country.

  • The RAP for area VIC/25-1 is the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation.
  • The RAP for area VIC/25-2 is Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation.

Permit holders are expected to engage early and meaningfully with RAPs and Traditional Owners. Engagement must follow published consultation protocols, such as those provided by RAPs. Engagement should reflect principles of free, prior and informed consent. It must also respect cultural rights under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.

How to apply

Tender applications are open under the:

  • Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2010 (Vic) for area VIC/25-1
  • Petroleum Act 1998 (Vic) for area VIC/25-2.

This is a competitive process. Applicants must show their industry experience, technical skills, financial capacity and a clear exploration plan that meets environmental and community expectations.

Applications close 5pm AEDT, Wednesday 11 February 2026.

Apply via the applicaiton form below.

Application form

2025 Petroleum Exploration Permit tender application form (PDF, 1.3 MB)

Supporting information

To assist applicants, Resources Victoria has prepared a prospectivity guide for the release areas.

Public consultation feedback

Between August and September 2025, the Victorian Government asked the public for feedback on the proposed release areas. Read the report on EngageVic.

Page last updated: 10 Dec 2025