Getting and keeping the right.
WHAT THE PROCESS TYPICALLY INVOLVES
Identifying an area Searching the register Application with documentation Payment of processing fees Assessment Grant
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT THE AREA
Its geology Whether access is possible Who occupies the surface Whether it is within any restricted zone
WHY SURFACE OCCUPATION MATTERS
Holding mineral title does not give access; surface rights must be settled separately.
WHAT THAT REQUIRES
Agreement with the landholder or occupier, and compensation where applicable.
WHY IT IS FREQUENTLY UNDERESTIMATED
It is where projects stall, and it is a community matter as much as a legal one.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH EARLY
Who genuinely holds and occupies the surface.
WHAT MAINTAINING TITLE REQUIRES
Payment of annual fees Meeting work obligations Reporting Renewal before expiry Compliance with conditions
WHY FEES MATTER ABSOLUTELY
Non-payment is grounds for revocation.
WHAT TO CALENDAR
Every fee, report and renewal date, with lead time.
WHAT TO KEEP
The title document, every receipt, and all correspondence.
WHAT DUE DILIGENCE ON AN EXISTING TITLE REQUIRES
Verification at the register that it exists and is current Confirmation of the holder Confirmation that fees are paid Any encumbrance or dispute
WHY
Titles offered for sale are frequently lapsed, disputed or misrepresented.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Invest on the strength of a document shown to you.
WHAT TO DO
Verify at the register yourself.
