The first 4 years
What we have done 2016–20
What we have done 2016–20
In 2016, Geoscience Australia, as the trusted source of information on Australia's geology, began the Exploring for the Future program to better understand the potential for mineral, energy and groundwater resources across northern Australia. The $100 million, 4-year program built on existing data, and employed new and innovative technologies and techniques, to provide industry and communities with the information they need to confidently plan and invest in new developments.
In June 2020, based on the programs success so far, the Australian Government invested an additional $125 million — bringing total investment to $225 million — to extend the program to 2024 and expand exploration across the whole of Australia.
The program has demonstrated immediate benefits, supporting job-creation and investment, particularly in regional economies. The 4-year extension of the program will build on the current findings to provide consistent national coverage and expand the benefits to southern Australia.
This page summarises our work, achievements and the benefits of the program during the first 4 years (2016–20). Some of the projects continue on under the current program (2020–24).
To find out more about our current projects, visit the Discover our projects page.
An overview of the Exploring for the Future program, the goals of the program and what we did during 2016–20 (2:08 min)
Unlocking Australia's mineral, energy, and groundwater resource potential is essential to drive economic growth, job creation, and ongoing infrastructure and community development.
We have completed 21 collaborative activities that have mapped the geology of northern Australia, covering over 3 million km2 — 39% of Australia's landmass and delivering more than 250 datasets and reports.
We used world leading scientific skills and technical capability to capture and analyse a huge amount of data, leading to an unprecedented understanding of the Earth beneath northern Australia.
Exploring for the Future is a world leading program, delivering public geoscientific data and the evidence required to attract future investment in resource exploration and development.
To find out more about our current projects, visit the Discover our projects page.
According to a 2023 Deloitte Access Economics report, government geoscience data and analysis supported $76b of added value to the economy in 2021-22, or 3.5% of GDP. Learn more about how the program has realised impact
Better evidence-based decision-making between landholders, traditional owners, public, government and industry.
Growing economic prosperity and social well-being through resource development, investment in resource exploration, new job creation and responsible agricultural planning.
Improved intergenerational water security and community resilience.
