Five acreage release areas for offshore oil and gas exploration are available for bidding.
These areas are within the Otway Basin offshore of Victoria and Tasmania.
Bidding closes at 4.00 pm on Tuesday 30 June 2026.
See regional geology, high-resolution maps, block diagrams and block listings for the acreage release areas.
Industry nominated proposed release areas. The minister announced the 2025 Otway offshore petroleum exploration acreage release on 11 December 2025.
We will consult with the public, governments and stakeholders on the proposal. The Joint Authority will consider all consultation comments before making a final decision on whether to offer to grant exploration permits. We are seeking submissions on our consultation hub until 5 February 2026.
The Guideline: Offshore petroleum exploration – Work–bid provides general guidance on the requirements of the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 and associated regulations.
