Who we are
NSW Resources, a division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, is responsible for the strategic management, regulation, and sustainable development of New South Wales' mineral and energy resources. We support safe, responsible exploration and mining, working closely with communities, landholders, and industry stakeholders to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Our main activities include:
- regulating exploration and mining through licensing, compliance and enforcement
- enforcing safety regulations to ensure the safety of workers in the industry
- developing policies for responsible and sustainable resource use
- managing geoscientific data and geological mapping via the Geological Survey of NSW
- supporting investment and economic development in the resources sector
- overseeing mine rehabilitation
- engaging with communities to promote transparency and land access collaboration.
NSW Resources comprises 4 teams:
- Assessments and Systems
- Business Operations and Programs
- Resources Regulator
- Strategy, Performance and Industry Development
Further information on our structure can be found in our organisation chart (PDF, 52.06 KB).
Resources Regulator
The Resources Regulator in NSW is the state's independent regulator for health and safety, rehabilitation, compliance and enforcement in the mining, extractives, and petroleum sectors. Operating within NSW Resources, the Regulator plays a critical role in ensuring that mining and petroleum activities are conducted safely, sustainably and in accordance with the law.
For more information, visit the Resources Regulator page.
Legislation administered
The Minister for Natural Resources and the Secretary of the department have decision-making functions under the Mining Act 1992 and these can be delegated to officers in NSW Resources, including the Resources Regulator.
The Resources Regulator also exercises a range of functions including:
- the right to operate under the Mining Act 1992 and the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991 and associated Regulations
- work health and safety obligations contained in the following Acts (and associated Regulations):
- Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013
- Work Health and Safety Act 2011
- Mining Act 1992
- Explosives Act 2003
- Protection from Harmful Radiation Act 1990
The Environment and Protection Authority is the lead regulator for all onshore petroleum exploration and production activities and is responsible for all compliance and enforcement activities under the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, with the exception of work health and safety.
For more information, visit the All legislation for NSW mining workplaces page.
Geological Survey of NSW
The Geological Survey of NSW (GSNSW) is the state's premier geoscientific agency, operating within NSW Resources. Established in 1875, GSNSW has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of NSW's geology and mineral resources.
GSNSW plays a vital role in supporting the state's economic development, environmental stewardship, and scientific advancement.
For more information, visit the Geological Survey of NSW page.
Annual reports
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development publish annual reports that detail the department’s activities during the financial year in the context of its strategic priorities and responsibilities.
To view the reports, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.