Pushing the boundaries of traditional exploration.
After 2 successful funding rounds resulting in 36 projects sharing a total of almost $7.5 million in funding, the Department for Energy and Mining has launched Round 3 of the Accelerated Discovery Initiative (ADI).
In his opening address at the South Australian Exploration and Mining Conference, Minister for Energy and Mining, the Hon Dan van Holst Pellekaan MP, announced that ADI Round 3 funding has been increased to $3 million, up from $1.5 million, to allow more projects to be supported and bring benefits to the industry and state.
The minister also announced extension of the initiative to 2025, committing another $11.5 million.
ADI is a South Australian Government exploration funding program which invites companies working in the state to submit innovative and pioneering proposals to advance exploration activity.
Expressions of interest for Round 3 will be open until 19 December 2021. Proponents whose projects are approved through the expressions of interest stage will be invited to make a detailed submission by 6 February 2022.
Round 3 core criteria
Exploration drilling. Single deep holes or multiple hole programs in frontier terrains, or drill testing new models and concepts. Includes direct drilling costs, both mobilisation and demobilisation, geochemical assays, petrology and downhole geophysical investigations.
New thinking and innovation in geophysics. Geophysical programs that focus on the application of innovative technology and concepts and/or provide for a significant improvement in the density or quality of data at a district or regional scale. Many programs in Rounds 1 and 2 initiated fresh collaborations between universities and explorers.
Logistical support in frontier and remote greenfield sites. Includes specialised equipment, vehicles or telecommunications and novel approaches for working in remote environmentally sensitive areas.
Research collaboration and proof-of-concept studies to transform exploration. Includes new ways to collect, transfer and interrogate information before, during or after drilling (e.g. downhole sensors, lasers), or even a new way to drill.
Aboriginal employment during exploration. Support to increase Aboriginal employment (and training) so regional communities can be part of the exploration workforce and businesses.
Increasing innovative sampling and testing of groundwater encountered during mineral exploration. Groundwater identification and increased sampling and testing to Environment Protection Authority standards.
Round 1 projects.
Round 2 projects.
More information on the ADI and how to apply for Round 3
– Louise Baida and Mai Ly, December 2021
