The Department of Natural Resources and Mines (NRM) will invest $28.2 million to facilitate the growth of exploration and sustainable development of Queensland's mineral, petroleum and extractive resources while securing an appropriate economic return.

Another $28.3 million will be invested to protect the health and safety of people involved in the mining, quarrying, explosives, petroleum and gas industries; and to ensure public safety associated with the use of gas and explosives.

Under these banners NRM will undertake a number of key mining programs during 2003-04. The programs are designed to progress the potential development of thermal coal deposits in the Surat-Dawson region; expedite mining exploration and tenure through streamlined native title processes, which allow greater access to land while protecting indigenous rights and local cultural heritage and facilitate the development of the states geothermal energy resources.

Also, after the furore surrounding the fire on the Century-1 rig at Myall Creek, NRM is set to complete the Petroleum and Gas (production and Safety) Act 2003, which will be part of an overhaul of legislation, standards, inspections, investigations, research and education into the safety of mining industry workers.