The Queensland Government has released new blocks of land in the Bowen and Surat Basins for petroleum and gas exploration.

More than 7,000 km2 of land is up for grabs across 12 petroleum areas, adding to the 64,000 km2 released by Queensland in its previous three exploration programs.

Queensland Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Dr Anthony Lynham said successful bidders would be supporting the next pipeline of resource projects.

“For Queensland to remain a resources powerhouse and to meet the world’s demand for resources exploration investment is critical,” he said.

“Like our previous land releases, our 2020 Queensland Exploration Program give explorers a clear line of sight so they can invest in confidence.”

Proposed tenders for petroleum are scheduled to open in April, with land awarded to successful bidders by September 2020.