OFFSHORE PETROLEUM AND GREENHOUSE GAS STORAGE ACT 2006 - SECT 97 Prohibition of unauthorised exploration for petroleum in offshore area

OFFSHORE PETROLEUM AND GREENHOUSE GAS STORAGE ACT 2006 - SECT 97

  (1)   A person commits an offence if:

  (a)   the person explores for petroleum; and

  (b)   the exploration occurs in an offshore area.

Penalty:   Imprisonment for 5 years.

  (2)   Subsection   (1) does not apply to conduct that is:

  (a)   authorised by a petroleum exploration permit; or

  (b)   otherwise authorised or required by or under this Act.

Note:   The defendant bears an evidential burden in relation to the matter in subsection   (2)--see subsection   13.3(3) of the Criminal Code .