The evolution of NSW Resources traces its roots back to the Department of Mines, which was established in 1874. What began as a government body focused on regulating mining operations on Crown Land has grown into a multifaceted department, integral to the sustainable management of the state’s natural resources and the promotion of safe exploration and mining.
In 1874, the NSW Government passed the Department of Mines Act, transferring responsibilities from the Department of Lands to the newly formed Department of Mines. This move centralised the oversight of mining activities on Crown Land, ensuring better regulation, safety, and efficiency. The department introduced a new system of mining districts and appointed mining wardens to enforce regulations, safeguarding the mining industry by including worker safety and the environment.
The 1874 Act also authorised the creation of key institutions, such as the School of Mines, which would later become a pivotal educational institution for future generations of mining professionals; and the mineralogical museum, which built a repository of knowledge and artefacts from NSW’s rich mining history.
A Mining Board was also established, consisting of up to 11 members, tasked with drafting and enforcing mining regulations to ensure safety and fair practice in the industry. Over the next few decades, the department expanded its reach, establishing branches such as the Mining Surveyors and the Occupation of Lands branch to facilitate the regulation of land use and ensure proper management of Crown Land. In the late 19th century, the department broadened its scope with the establishment of the Sheep Inspectors, highlighting the intersection of mining with agriculture and rural life in NSW.
In 1891, the Department of Mines was merged with agricultural interests to form the Department of Mines and Agriculture. This shift marked an important moment in the department’s history, reflecting the growing interconnectedness of mining and agriculture in NSW's economic development.
While the name and scope of the department evolved, the focus on the responsible management of the state's natural resources remained central to its mission.
Today, NSW Resources (now part of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) plays a pivotal role in supporting the productive growth of the NSW resources sector, while ensuring the sustainable management of the state's natural resources.
The legacy of the Department of Mines, and later the Department of Mines and Agriculture, lives on in the modern regulatory frameworks and the robust system of governance that ensures the long-term health of NSW's resources sector.
The Geological Survey of NSW, an integral part of NSW Resources, supports ongoing exploration by continuing to investigate the state’s geology and providing critical data and resources to the mineral exploration and geological communities. The legacy of the Department of Mines lives on, continuing to shape the state's economic future while respecting the importance of sustainable development and responsible resource management.
From its humble beginnings in 1874 to its present-day focus on ensuring a balance between resource extraction and environmental sustainability, NSW Resources has played—and will continue to play—an important role in shaping the future of New South Wales. As the department looks ahead, it remains dedicated to supporting the state’s primary industries, fostering innovation, and ensuring the health of its natural resources for future generations.
In 2025, the Geological Survey of NSW celebrates its 150th anniversary and as part of the celebrations is sharing stories of its history, projects and achievements over the years.
For more information visit Celebrating 150 years of the Geological Survey of NSW
