Macquarie Arc Seismic Survey

Description

Provide deep-crustal seismic data over the Macquarie Arc, imaging Earth's crust down to about 40-60km, using specialised equipment along existing roads and tracks.

Project goals

NSW Resources is supporting NSW energy transition through the critical mineral and high-tech metals strategy by:

• releasing pre-competitive data to support projects, and
• supporting industry in identifying new critical mineral resources in NSW.

A seismic survey in Central NSW will help to image deep structures in Earth’s crust, like an ultrasound. This image will improve our understanding of the structures and geology of the Hermidale Terrane, Hill End Trough and Macquarie Arc in the Central Lachlan Orogen. These areas are prospective for critical and high-tech metals needed for NSW energy transition, and for deep groundwater sources in sandstones (the Great Artesian Basin).

The project follows on from seismic acquisition in 2025. Seismic acquisition needs to start by March 2026. Acquisition must be complete by early June.

Seismic data will inform us about:

• the minerals systems and their plumbing, which supports the search for critical minerals
• rocks that may host deep groundwater for use in times of drought by agriculture, towns and industry
• geological faults, which may impact infrastructure and
• the tectonic history of NSW.

All data acquired will be made publicly available (as pre-competitively data). Seismic data is used by explorers, engineers and geoscientist to better understand rocks.

Scope

Approximately 400 km Hybrid shallow and deep-crustal reflection seismic data over Central NSW with traffic control and possibly a ground gravity survey, if the budget permits. For technical details, please see Part D - Statement of Requirements.

Related files

• No files attached

Additional details/instructions

• To view the Additional Documents, a link and password has been provided in Part A - Overview and Conditions. (Approx size is 62GB)

Please note: This password will expire on 3rd January 2026. As the DPIRD offices close on 24th December 2025, and reopen 12th January 2026, we encourage you to use the password for access to the Additional Documents by no later than 23rd December 2025.

Requirements

Opportunity requirements

1.

Tender Documents

Please download all the attached documents and complete and return: -

• Part B - Response Form
• SME and Local Participation Plan

Response type

File upload (Multiple)

Response templates

• P_2520284 - Part B - Response Form.docx (84 KB)

• P_2520284 - Part E - SME and Local Participation Plan.DOCX (73 KB)

Related documents

• P_2520284 - Part C - Services Contract Template.pdf (1188 KB)

• P_2520284 - Part D - Statement of Requirements.pdf (237 KB)

• P_2520284 - Part A - Overview and Conditions.pdf (266 KB)

Evaluation

Terms and conditions