The Code sits under the Mining Act 1992 and the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991 and applies to all prospecting titles in NSW. It formalises community consultation as part of how exploration is carried out, not something separate to it. Key facts: * the Code applies to all exploration licences and assessment leases in NSW * consultation must be “adequate, inclusive and appropriate” to the activity * a Community Consultation Plan must be in place before work starts * records must be maintained and provided if requested within required timeframes * an annual report must be prepared within one month of the grant anniversary * engagement must be proportionate to the scale, location and potential impacts of activities. The Code also introduces a stronger link between day to day engagement and compliance. This means your engagement approach needs to be consistent across your team, not dependent on individuals or ad hoc conversations. What this looks like in practice For example, if you are planning a drilling program near private land: * stakeholders are identified early, including nearby landholders and local community * contact is made before activities begin, not once work is underway * questions about access, noise or timing are recorded and responded to * any changes to timing or approach are communicated clearly * all interactions are logged so they can be included in reporting. Over time, this builds a clear record of engagement that can be used to demonstrate compliance and respond to any queries from the regulator. The Code allows flexibility in how you engage, but your approach needs to be planned, consistent and able to be explained if reviewed.