The law of the search
Metal Detecting and Treasure Laws in Australia
MixedMetal detecting. Prospecting legal with a state Miner's Right in gold country
What happens to finds. Gold you find prospecting is yours; relics and wrecks are protected
What happens to finds. Gold you find prospecting is yours; relics and wrecks are protected
Worth knowing
Each state writes its own rules.
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. The rules change and vary by county, city, park, and parcel, and federal land carries its own restrictions. Always confirm with the specific land manager or agency before you search, and record and report finds where the law requires it.
Hunts and grounds in Australia
- The Gemfields of Central Queensland Sapphire, Rubyvale, QLD, Australia
- Lightning Ridge Lightning Ridge, NSW, Australia
- Coober Pedy, the Noodling Heaps Coober Pedy, SA, Australia
- The Golden Triangle Ballarat, Wedderburn, Ararat, VIC, Australia
- The Kalgoorlie Goldfields Kalgoorlie, Boulder, WA, Australia
- The Andamooka Opal Fields Andamooka, South Australia
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