Australia Rockhounding Regulations

General Rules

  • • Collecting regulations vary by state and territory
  • • Most fossicking requires permits or licenses
  • • Respect Aboriginal cultural sites
  • • Follow local council regulations

Permits & Licenses

  • • Fossicking licenses required in most states
  • • Contact local mining departments for permits
  • • Some areas require landowner permission

Restrictions

  • • No collecting in national parks without permits
  • • Protected fossil sites are off-limits
  • • Some areas restricted for cultural significance

Contacts

  • • Geoscience Australia: +61 2 6249 9111
  • • Australian Museum: +61 2 9320 6000
  • • Local mining departments vary by state