Mining companies and mineral explorers will have a greater understanding of Australia's energy resources and mineral potential following the release of a new map by the Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, in Adelaide today.
The Radiometric Map of Australia was compiled using results from the world's first whole-of-continent geophysical survey and gives a clear picture of low-level natural radiation emitted by potassium, uranium and thorium across Australia.
Minister Ferguson said: "Geoscience Australia's Radiometric Map will be a powerful addition to information used by companies exploring for energy and mineral commodities. It will create fresh opportunities for scientists and explorers to relate the geochemical patterns indicated by radiometric data in a specific area to similar patterns observed in another region of Australia.
"By collating the information into layers and integrating it with other information such as gravity data and surface sampling to provide a complete image of geological features present in the landscape, explorers will be able to better target potential mineralisation and energy sources, including geothermal energy.
"This type of technology is particularly important for Australia because of this country's strong reliance on the mining and exploration industry for its economic future and the strength of its regional social fabric."
The Map has been developed from radiometric data collected by Geoscience Australia, State and Northern Territory geological surveys, and the private sector over four decades. It follows a continent-wide airborne survey undertaken by Geoscience Australia as part of the Australian Government's Onshore Energy Security Initiative.
Minister Ferguson said: "The Radiometric Map will provide mining companies and explorers with accurate pre-competitive information which reduces risk associated with exploration."
For further information on the Radiometric Map of Australia visit www.ga.gov.au.