Energy, Resources & Utilities Lawyers Australia
Summary
Astris Law advises Australian energy companies and resources businesses on mining and petroleum tenement agreements, environmental compliance under the EPBC Act, renewable energy project development, native title agreements, royalty arrangements and regulatory approvals.
Legal Services for Energy, Resources & Utilities in Australia
The energy and resources sector is defined by the tension between large-scale commercial objectives and an intricate web of environmental and community oversight. Whether the focus is on traditional mining, renewable energy or utility infrastructure, the legal challenge is managing long-term project viability within an evolving regulatory framework. We treat these matters as one part of a larger commercial reality, ensuring that the legal foundation supports the physical movement of the project.
Astris Law provides tailored legal advice for energy, resources & utilities businesses across Australia. We understand the unique regulatory challenges, commercial pressures and risk profile of your industry, and we deliver practical, commercially focused legal solutions.
How We Can Help
Key Challenges We Address
Key Legislation & Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
What environmental approvals are needed for mining in Australia?
Mining projects in Australia typically require environmental impact assessments, EPBC Act referrals for matters of national environmental significance, state environmental authority approvals, rehabilitation and financial assurance bonds and ongoing compliance with conditions of approval. The process involves both state and Commonwealth regulatory pathways.
What is a power purchase agreement (PPA) in Australian energy law?
A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a long-term contract between an energy generator and a buyer for the supply of electricity at agreed terms. In Australia, PPAs are essential for renewable energy projects, providing revenue certainty for project financing. They typically include pricing mechanisms, volume commitments, environmental certificate transfers and grid connection arrangements.
How do native title rights affect resource projects in Australia?
Native title rights under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) can significantly affect resource projects. The 'right to negotiate' process requires future act notifications and good faith negotiations with native title holders before certain mining tenements can be granted. Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) are commonly used to formalise arrangements.
What environmental approvals are needed for mining in Australia?
Mining projects in Australia require a multi-layered approvals process involving both Commonwealth and state or territory environmental legislation. At the Commonwealth level, projects that may have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance require referral and assessment under the EPBC Act 1999. At the state level, operators must obtain environmental authorities, mining leases and rehabilitation plans, and comply with conditions including financial assurance bonds to guarantee site rehabilitation upon closure.
How are renewable energy projects regulated in Queensland?
Renewable energy projects in Queensland are regulated under a combination of Commonwealth and state legislation including the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000, the Electricity Act 1994 (Qld) and the Planning Act 2016 (Qld). Developers must obtain development approvals, negotiate grid connection agreements with transmission network service providers and comply with environmental assessment requirements. Large-scale generation certificates (LGCs) under the Renewable Energy Target scheme provide a financial incentive, and power purchase agreements are typically required to secure project financing.
Written by Jamie Nuich, Principal of Astris Law
Need a lawyer who understands energy, resources & utilities? Talk to Astris Law.
We work directly with directors in energy, resources & utilities across Australia. No layers, no committees. One lawyer who understands both the law and your industry.
Relevant Practice Areas for Energy, Resources & Utilities
Corporate & Commercial
Comprehensive legal solutions for company formation, shareholder agreements, M&A and commercial contracts.
Property
Commercial property transactions, development, leasing and property dispute resolution.
Regulatory & Compliance
Navigating ASIC, ACCC, Australian Consumer Law and industry regulatory frameworks.