Bidding is now open for the 2021 Offshore Petroleum Exploration Acreage Release. Companies have the opportunity to bid on release areas until Thursday 3 March 2022.

The annual Offshore Petroleum Exploration Acreage Release forms a key part of the Australian Government’s strategy to promote offshore oil and gas exploration.

Each year, the Government invites companies to bid for the opportunity to invest in oil and gas exploration in Australian waters.

The 2021 acreage release comprises 21 areas. They are located offshore of Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and the Ashmore and Cartier Islands.

All areas in this release are based on industry nominations and public consultation. They are all available for work-program bidding.

More information on the release areas and bidding instructions can be found here.