In Tasmania, those who embark on the rewarding yet challenging journey of prospecting pay a fee to the government to gain the right to search for gold on crown land. However, unlike other Australian states, the gold that is discovered remains the property of the crown, preventing these hardworking individuals from legally selling the gold they have rightfully found. This anomaly in Tasmanian law not only creates unfair economic barriers for prospectors but also discourages exploration and investment in this historic and potentially profitable industry.

Prospecting has a rich history in Tasmania, dating back to the gold rush days, providing economic opportunities to many families and local businesses. Allowing licensed prospectors to sell the gold they recover could reinvigorate regional economies, promote tourism, and bring Tasmania in line with the rest of the country’s approach to resource management.

A modern, fair approach to Tasmania’s gold prospecting laws would recognize the effort, skill, and dedication required to discover gold. Changing these laws could also attract more prospectors, leading to increased fees paid to the government, and more accurately reflect the prospectors’ personal and financial commitment. Additionally, license holders contribute to Tasmania's economy through purchasing equipment, transportation, and accommodation.

The current legislation is an outdated constraint on enterprise and ingenuity. Reforming it would boost the livelihood of local prospectors and encourage sustainable resource exploration. It would demonstrate Tasmania’s commitment to ensuring equitable treatment of its resource industries and provide a boost to local communities through investment and job creation.

Join us in advocating for a change to Tasmania’s prospecting laws, aligning them with the rest of the nation, and ensuring that prospectors have the right to sell their hard-won finds legally. Please sign this petition to support Tasmanian prospectors and urge the government to revise the regulations around recovered gold. Your signature can make a difference, helping to unlock Tasmania's potential for sustainable economic growth and prosperity. Sign now to support this crucial change!