Exploration programs receive govt funding

The state government has named the 43 successful applicants that will share in about $5 million for exploration drilling programs, with over half of those being gold projects.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said the 43 companies and prospectors would share in $5.26 million through the Exploration Incentive Scheme.

It is the 15^th round of funding for explorers.

The list of successful applicants includes the likes of Dacian Gold, Metals X, Northern Star Resources and Silver Lake Resources, with 25 of the projects targeting gold as either a primary or secondary commodity.

“Programs supported by co-funding give companies an extra incentive to rill in underexplored areas,” Mr Johnston said.

“The McGowan government is committed to supporting the future of Western Australia’s vital resources industry.

“Our continued investment in the EIS helps create economic opportunities for the future.”

The projects that received the funding are expected to be drilled during the 2017 financial year.

Another round of funding will open to applicants in September, for projects to be drilled in 2018.